Today I packed my car with all of the safety things I need to have for winter driving. This act of ensuring I have the things to keep myself safe in the event of being stranded or stuck in the snow has made me feel very empowered. I have an ice scrapper, flash light, extra food, extra water, extra clothes and much more. I am ready. I can take care of myself. I have nothing to be afraid of. And when in doubt, I can simply choose to stay wherever I am. Whether I choose to stay home and not chance the roads coming into work, or if I choose to stay over in SCV and not drive home; the power is mine. I am prepared.

This feeling of empowerment is my work this year. I am learning to take back my personal power (my will) and be the strong woman that I know I am. You see, I do not have a strong will, but I am learning to nourish it and develop it. I have learned to say ” No”, even though it was very hard. I have learned to trust myself and my decisions. I have come to accept that not everyone is going to like me, and that’s okay.

My journey started with this gut healing protocol I have been on for 6 weeks. I am half way through it and I can feel myself getting stronger. You see, your will is connected to your digestive system. More specifically, it is your 3rd Chakra- the Solar Plexus. It is located in the upper part of your belly. “The main function of this energy center is to provide actual momentum to move forward and realize personal desires and intentions in the world. It plays a fundamental role in the development of personal power.” – http://www.chakras.info/solar-plexus-chakra/

Some of the main meanings associated with this Chakra are your will/personal power, making decisions, self-assurance/confidence and personal identity. All of these elements have come into light for me. I feel a sense of empowerment with my eating- even though it is so restricted right now. I have discovered new foods and recipes. I have taken charge of this nutritional journey and my body is feeling better. I have the power to choose how I eat and I am not letting anyone or anything influence what I feel is right for me. Sounds funny when all I crave is a damn muffin and I can’t eat one right now! But I am choosing not to eat it so I can heal my gut. Make sense? In 6 more weeks that damn muffin is MINE! LOL!

Now it is your turn to observe yourself. Are feeling a lack of empowerment? Are you feeling helpless? Do you lack direction or purpose? Perhaps you have been manipulative or misusing your power? These are signs that your 3rd Chakra could be imbalanced. But don’t fret. No one is perfect. Awareness is the first step. Take back your power by educating yourself and taking the steps towards a happier, healthier you.  I did, and I am feeling great!

Here is a great resource from Yoga Journal to help balance your solar plexus.  https://www.yogajournal.com/practice/navel-chakra-tune-practice

Namaste.