# The solar plexus chakra (Manipura)

> The solar plexus chakra (Manipura) in yoga tradition: where it sits, its colour (yellow), its themes, and the crystals traditionally linked with it.

URL: https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/chakras/solar-plexus
Updated: 2026-10-30

Manipura, meaning 'city of jewels' in Sanskrit, is the third of the seven main chakras in modern yoga tradition. It is placed at the upper belly, below the ribs, shown as yellow, and linked with confidence, willpower and self-esteem.

## At a glance

|  | Solar plexus chakra |
| --- | --- |
| Sanskrit name | Manipura ('city of jewels') |
| Position | The upper belly, below the ribs |
| Colour | Yellow |
| Element | Fire |
| Seed sound (bija) | RAM |
| Themes | Confidence, willpower and self-esteem |

## Where the idea comes from

Chakras ('wheels') come from Hindu and Buddhist tantric texts, where the number and details vary. The familiar seven chakras with rainbow colours come largely from Sir John Woodroffe's 1919 book The Serpent Power and later Western writers. We share the system as tradition and a tool for reflection, not as anatomy or medicine.

## Crystals for the solar plexus chakra

Stones usually matched with Manipura share its colour: [Citrine](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/crystals/citrine), [Tiger's eye](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/crystals/tiger-eye), [Pyrite](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/crystals/pyrite), [Sunstone](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/crystals/sunstone) and [Amber](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/crystals/amber). Many people place one on the body during a lying-down meditation, or keep it on a desk as a reminder.

## A simple practice

Write down one thing you will do this week and do it. Sit in morning light with a golden stone.

Some people chant the seed sound RAM softly for a few breaths. Ten quiet minutes is plenty.

## Colour around the home

Using yellow in candles, cloths or flowers is a gentle way to bring the solar plexus chakra's themes into a room. Our [candle colour guide](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/guides/candle-colour-meanings) lists traditional meanings.

## Questions

**What colour is the solar plexus chakra?**

Yellow.

**Where is the solar plexus chakra?**

At the upper belly, below the ribs, in modern yoga tradition.

**Which crystals go with the solar plexus chakra?**

Citrine, Tiger's eye, Pyrite, Sunstone and Amber.

**What element is the solar plexus chakra?**

The solar plexus chakra is linked with fire in modern chakra tradition. Each of the seven main chakras is given an element, rising from earth at the root to more subtle elements higher up. People sometimes use this in meditation, picturing the element while focusing on the chakra's position.

**What is the seed mantra for the solar plexus chakra?**

The seed (bija) mantra for the solar plexus chakra is RAM. In yoga tradition it is chanted slowly on the out-breath, feeling the sound resonate, often for a few minutes. A [singing bowl](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/how-to-use/singing-bowls) can be used alongside it to set a calm pace.

**What incense is used for the solar plexus chakra?**

Modern practice pairs the solar plexus chakra with bright scents such as lemongrass, cinnamon and ginger. These pairings are modern tradition, chosen by mood and colour. Burn incense in a ventilated room on a heatproof holder. Browse our [incense](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/collections/incense) and [incense guide](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/guides/incense-types-explained).

**What is an affirmation for the solar plexus chakra?**

A traditional-style affirmation for the solar plexus chakra is "I trust myself and act with confidence." Say it slowly a few times, perhaps holding a yellow stone or sitting quietly. Affirmations are a reflective practice, not a treatment. See [crystals for the solar plexus chakra](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/chakras/solar-plexus).

## Related

- [Root chakra](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/chakras/root)
- [Sacral chakra](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/chakras/sacral)
- [Heart chakra](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/chakras/heart)
- [Throat chakra](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/chakras/throat)
- [Third eye chakra](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/chakras/third-eye)
- [Crown chakra](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/chakras/crown)
- [All seven chakras](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/chakras)

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