The third cakra, Manipura, is often referred to as the power center and for good reason. Manipura's tattwa, or element, is Fire, and from this cakra, prana (or life-energy) is distributed through out the entire system, energizing and regulating the entire being. On a physical level, this is effected through samana vayu, the 'vital air' responsible for digestion and the delivering of nourishment to the various tissues of the body.
This activating and energizing action of Manipura is reflected in life, in general, through one's will power and accomplishments, the effectiveness of willpower. It is also largely responsible for how others see you, your personality, Manipura's Fire radiating out wards, as a display to those around you.
Anatomically, Manipura is located at the level of the navel, within the spinal column. It is the first of the main cakras to be located within the spine and, accordingly, reflects a higher or elevated state and perspective on life. Whereas the previous two cakras reflect the "lower", more basic, drives and instincts, at Manipura, greater awareness is gained and one can see the innate beauty and perfection in all things in the world. At the lower cakras, perspective is limited; evil and ugliness may occupy much of one's vision.
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