A Solar Plexus Ritual For Summertime + Why It's Important

Each of the seven main chakras is associated with a different area of our lives, and when they're all balanced, we, too, can feel balanced as a result. In the case of the solar plexus chakra, or Manipura, the summer season is prime time to work on it. Here's why, plus a ritual and tips to find balance this summer.

Whenever we judge, criticize, or feel angry and helpless, however, we close our solar plexus, weakening our willpower. "When our solar plexus is closed," she says, "we are stuck. We cling to sameness and security. We will see all power and control coming from outside of us rather than in."

In order to maintain balance, she says, it's important to incorporate both water-enhancing practices for balance and fire-stabilizing practices to keep the fire from running rampant.

This ritual from Firpo is designed to remind yourself of your power. All you'll need is a yellow candle, a piece of paper, and something to write with. Feel free to set the mood with a little incense too, if you like.

In addition to the ritual, Jeffries suggests the following practices to enhance water and stabilize fire.

This breathwork practice is cooling, helping to tame masculine energy associated with fire, and maximize feminine (water) energy in your body. Bring your index and middle finger to your third eye, and your thumb to close your right nostril. Breathe in through the left nostril, then close the left nostril and exhale through the right nostril. Repeat the inhalation through the left nostril.

Some of our summertime favorites that are in season right now are actually cooling foods. Jeffries suggests watermelon, lunchtime salads, avocado, coconut, mango, dates, cilantro, and blueberries. "These foods naturally have the water element within them and optimize digestion during the summertime," she adds.

Take a dip in your nearest stream, lake, or even the ocean if you're able. "Submerging under the ocean waves, dipping in the lake, or swimming laps for exercise are the best ways to release negative energy and calm the mind and body," Jeffries notes.

Summer (aka pitta season) can make us particularly fiery, according to Jeffries. She recommends keeping a level head by practicing things like yoga Nidra, meditation, and journaling. Whatever helps you feel cool, calm, and collected, though, will help.

The four aforementioned practices are all about cooling and enhancing water, and these next four are for stabilizing fire. According to Jeffries, "You may feel the extra urge to start something new and create during this time." Seize this energy by trying a new workout or starting a creative project that sparks joy. "Let your creativity and passions run wild," she says.

Summertime enhances our commitment and endurance level, making this a great time to take on a 40-day challenge, for example. "Grab an accountability friend to hold you to your goals," Jeffries adds.

"Fire energy is the epitome of being confident and living authentically," Jeffries explains. Own your talents by creating a list of your favorite characteristics about yourself. "Choose three and post them somewhere where you can see them every day," she suggests.

If you're feeling like your solar plexus chakra could be a little out of whack, don't stress—there are ways to get it back in balance. From chakra-inspired affirmations to chakra-clearing mudras and, of course, any of the options mentioned above, your solar plexus is sure to be in great shape by the time summer comes to an end.