VISHUDDA or Throat Chakra

This is called Vishudda or the Throat Chakra. It is located at the level of the throat, between the sixth and seventh vertebra of the spine. Linked to the thyroid gland, it corresponds to the element of SPACE (or ETHER) and with the sense of hearing.

This chakra corresponds to words, communication and the expression of self, of creativity, the capacity to lead others, to form an identity (the development of the originality of the individual).

The throat chakra is a sort of ‘bridge’ between the way we think and the way we react. At the same time, it transmits information from the other chakras outwards. Through it, we can externalise our internal universe: our laughter and our tears, our feelings of love and joy, but also of anguish and anger, our intentions, desires, ideas, the understanding and perception we have of our "inner world".

We can only express what is inside of us. The throat chakra gives us the faculty of self-reflection; in order to reflect, we must first have a sense of perspective, a sort of ‘inner distance’. The throat chakra allows us to become aware of our own mental and intellectual processes, thereby allowing us to distinguish between emotional and physical feelings. This means that our thoughts are no longer dominated, or influenced by physical feelings and sensations, which prevent us from making objective evaluations.

This chakra corresponds to the sensorial function of hearing: through it we understand the hidden voices of Creation and we also receive our own inner voice (intuition) and receive inspiration through the Spirit behind it.

If this chakra is properly open and functioning harmoniously:

We have no fear in expressing our feelings, thoughts and innermost realisations. We can display both strength and weakness. Our personal sincerity, and our sincerity towards others, manifests itself in a direct attitude. Language is highly imaginative yet at the same time very clear; it conveys our intentions very effectively. We have the capacity for whole-hearted self-expression, in an original and creative manner. We have no problem keeping silent when the moment demands it, and have the gift of listening to those around us with our hearts and our deeper understanding. We don’t allow ourselves to be influenced by the opinions of others, and moreover keep our independence and self-determination.

The absence of prejudice makes us open to the reality of invisible subtle levels: through our inner voice (intuition), we receive information from higher astral planes, thus benefitting from spiritual guidance in life.

If it is dysfunctional:

The relationship between the head and the body is ‘upset’ We either have trouble thinking about our feelings and our inhibition tends to translate as ill-thought out actions, or alternatively we seek refuge in rationalism and refuse such feelings any right to exist. We only accept certain emotions that can get through the barrier of our own judgement and that tally with the opinions of those around us.

A subconscious guilt complex or anxiety prevents us seeing or showing ourselves as we are, or expressing our innermost thoughts, feelings and needs freely. On the other hand we try to hide them behind a flood of words and gestures so as not to ‘reveal’ ourselves. We never allow ourselves to appear in a position of weakness; but we are ready to try anything to protect an external appearance of strength. And so we are the victims of the pressure of our own demands. Life’s trials weigh very heavy on us.

This does not exclude the fact of possessing great inner knowledge, but rather implies a lack of the courage needed to express them, out of fear of the judgement of others or anxiety at the thought of being left alone. Free access to the messages from the soul is cut-off, faith in our intuition is almost non-existent.

In summary, the throat chakra is unbalanced: if you have communication difficulties or problems expressing yourself fully, or if you don’t feel you are the ‘master’ of your own destiny, if you don’t have enough individuality, if you are easily influenced by others, if you fear change.