
Throat Chakra at a Glance:
Sanskrit name: Vishuddha
Meaning: Pure
Element: Ether
Color: Blue
Petals: Sixteen
Sense: Hearing
Rights: To Speak
Function: Expression and communicate with the world
Challenge: Lies
The Vishudda or Throat Chakra is the 5th chakra in the chakra system and it deals with our higher creativity. It is where we express how we feel and what think. The 16 petals of the throat chakra represent the 16 vowel sounds of the Sanskrit and it’s Vrittis meaning “waves” or “ripples” of disturbance are: communication, calmness, purity, a melodious voice, and the command of speech and mantras. The throat chakra is where we communicate all of the characteristics of our higher and lower chakras. From the throat chakra we express our inner most feelings, our thoughts, and what we perceive, which allows us to understand ourselves better.
The throat chakra is not just about expression, it is also about active listening. Active listening is making a conscious decision to not only hear the words the other person is speaking but also hearing the complete message they are trying to communicate. The benefits of becoming a better listener included improved productivity, as well as an increase in the ability to influence, persuade and negotiate. Not to mention all of the conflicts and misunderstandings that can be avoided. Comprehension NOT Communication is the most critical component to any successful relationship. What you say and how you say it wont mean anything if the person on the receiving end lacks active listening and comprehension skills, it’ll be like talking to a brick wall, at the end of the day you will be worn out and exhausted and it will still be a brick wall. Listening is not only important in interpersonal relationships, it is imperative that we learn how to become silent and calm to listen our selves and our surroundings to accurately interpret the messages from your higher self and the Universe. This why the throat chakra is also associated with meditation.
Closed/Blocked Throat Chakra
Someone with a closed or blocked throat chakra has difficulty expressing their feelings and emotions. They will keep their feelings and emotions bottled up inside because they fear rejection or public opinion. This fear holds them back from expressing their true feelings and emotions. They are very good listeners and because of this they have a strong connection to their inner being and are able to keep their emotions in check. Someone with a closed or blocked throat chakra tends to be very shy, quiet, and withdrawn. They will only speak when spoken to and will usually keep their conversations very short. Their voice will lack confidence and intensity as self expression does not come easily for them. Since a person with a closed or blocked throat chakra can not express themselves outwardly they will most likely show their true selves through creative works such as art, music, storytelling, and poetry. This helps them to release the emotions and feelings they hold back in everyday interactions. Their art will be very intuitive and creative but because they fear rejection and public opinion they are reluctant to show off their work. Entering a new environment can also cause a persons throat chakra to close as a defense mechanism but when in a comfortable or familiar environment their throat chakra will open up and they will communicate freely.
Unbalanced Throat Chakra
A person whose throat chakra is unbalanced has difficulties expressing their genuine feelings and emotions they will conceal their true emotions as a way to protect themselves from realizing their own insecurities and appease their ego. Their words lack meaning because it is not truly how they feel. They do not posses a true sense of confidence in themselves so they communicate a false sense of confidence which is noticeable in their actions and the way they communicate. As a result they may come across as “fake” or insincere. Since they are unable to express their own feelings they express the feelings of others through toxic activities such as gossiping. Someone with an unbalanced throat chakra often speaks with a loud voice, and has difficulty remaining quiet due to their constant need to express themselves. This does not make them good communicators however, in fact the opposite is true, since they are always talking they are not participating in active listening, making them poor listeners and communicators. The inability to quiet their minds blocks them from being able to listen to their inner being and connect to their higher selves and the Universe so they lack knowledge of self and the world around them, and often repeat cycles due to a lack of discernment and weak will power. They are quick to express their emotions as soon as they receive them with out taking the time to be silent and interpret them. They can be very explosive when emotionally triggered and will lash out in fits anger or sadness for example. A person with an unbalanced throat chakra can articulate themselves well but since they are communicating a false self they will not use it for honesty. Someone with an unbalanced throat chakra is also prone to being a compulsive liar and/or a manipulator.
Balanced Throat Chakra
A person with a balanced throat chakra is true to them selves and because of that, they are able to vocalize their wants, needs, and desires to others in a healthy way. Grounded and confident in their communication they are not afraid to be their authentic self. Free and liberated from self doubt, a person with a balanced throat chakra is confident that what they are saying is true. This confidence allows them to express themselves and stand alone in their truths if need be. Someone with a balanced throat chakra has a strong connection to mind, body and spirit. They instinctively know what they need to do, so they allow their spirit to lead them through their journey. They will freely share their knowledge and wisdom with others without fear of how people will react or what other peoples opinions of them will be. Free from prejudices they are able to listen to others believing that everyone has something to offer.
If you are feeling like your Throat chakra may be blocked or out of balance, affirmations, meditation, wearing the color sky blue, getting out in nature, and working with crystals are all excellent tools to get you back in balance.
Throat Chakra Healing Crystals
Lapis Lazuli – encourages honesty of the spirit, and in the spoken and written word. Brings harmony in relationships. Reveals inner truth, and promotes self-awareness and the acceptance of that knowledge. Quickly releases stress, allowing for peace and serenity.
Turquoise – releases old vows, inhibitions, and allows the soul to express itself once more. Induces wisdom and understanding, and enhances trust, kindness, and the recognition of beauty. A strengthening stone it is good for exhaustion, depression, or panic attacks.
Blue Lace Agate – helps in overcoming communication difficulties esp. those who struggle to express their emotions. Aids those who are unable to stop talking, or who speak before thinking about the consequences of their words. Promotes inner stability, composure, and maturity.


