It's very common to have a problem with this chakra, which shows up as sore throats, laryngitis, stiff neck and shoulders, and ear or thyroid problems. Throughout my twenties I suffered constantly from tonsillitis and throat-related infections. I also spent most of my twenties trying to be what others wanted me to be and not expressing my true nature, or having the confidence to speak out what I really felt. Once I realised that and changed my ways in my thirties, the problem vanished and now I can't remember the last time I had a sore throat! If this sounds familiar, ask yourself whether what you say is what you really mean, are you allowing your spirit to express itself creatively through art, dance, craft, drama or music? Do you feel that you have a voice and that what you say is truly heard?

Boosting your throat chakra

As this is the chakra of sound and communication, music-lovers can indulge their passion, arty types can get creative, dancers can float or stomp and writers can immerse themselves in words and language. Do whatever allows you to expresses your true spirit to free up the throat chakra.

Wear something blue
Blue is the colour of the throat chakra, so wearing it will help to put you in touch with its creative energy. If blue doesn’t suit you, try carrying a blue crystal, such as blue lace agate, sodalite or lapis lazuli.

Use your voice
Any fans of karaoke, like me, have the perfect excuse to let rip to their favourite tunes to help clear the throat chakra. Saying affirmations or chanting mantras are also an excellent way of ensuring that this chakra is resonating to the highest and clearest vibrations. Each chakra has a seed sound, and the one for the throat chakra is HAM - try chanting this every morning for a week and notice the effects. If you have the false belief that you can't sing, try attending a voice workshop and be surprised at the amazing sound you can produce!

Practice silence
Listening is an important, and often forgotten, element of good communication. By avoiding verbal communication, you're opening yourself up to other, higher consciousness avenues of communication such as telepathy. Try a vow of silence for an hour at first, then build gradually to a whole day - or even longer if you can manage it!

Exercises
• Because the neck acts as a filter between the abundant energy of the mind and the body, it's very prone to tension and stiffness. Loosening the neck is essential when working on the throat chakra. Lift your head up away from your shoulders, then roll your head clockwise in a circular motion, stretching your neck. Take care to stop at any painful points and massage with your fingers before continuing. Repeat in an anti-clockwise direction.
• To stimulate the thyroid gland and strengthen the neck, practice head lifts. Lie flat on your back and relax. Slowly lift your head, leving your shoulders on the floor, so that you're looking at your toes. Hold this position until you feel the energy move into your neck, then gently lower your head to the floor.

Charades
Spend an hour with someone in total silence but engaged in active communication. Choose subjects that will challenge you, and notice how you choose to communicate - through genstures, hand symbols, eye movements or physical manipulation. Notice how much easier it's become by the end of the hour, and also anything that's particularly difficult. If you're having problems communicating effectively with someone, this is a great way to break the ice and ease the process.

©Semele Xerri