Finding your voice isn’t about finding something new. Instead, you simply find more of you, more freedom to speak and more freedom to express. What limits your voice? What stops you from speaking up? Do you not like what you have to say? Maybe your voice is heard, but not through words. Maybe you are heard through art and expression. Maybe you are already showing who you really are. Remember, your voice doesn’t need to be accepted by others, just by yourself.

If you are struggling to feel your voice aligns with your true self, take what you want to express through these three gates. At the first gate, ask yourself “Is is true?” At the second gate ask, “Is it necessary?” At the third gate ask, “Is it kind?”.

Through opening and closing the throat chakra (or Vishudhi Chakra) by the physical practice of asanas and pranayama, you can support the quest for finding your voice. The throat chakra is situated near the third cervical vertebrae. Some of the physical associations are vocal cords, speech and hearing. The associated emotions are honesty, dishonesty and criticism. It has an energy field known as ‘akash’ which keeps the lower energy currents running smoothly and energises rational thought. The throat chakra has an intelligence that focuses on creativity, especially of the spoken and written word.

Think, how else you can find more of your voice? How can you bring more balance to your throat chakra? Is it through journaling and reflective writing, taking time to meditate and listen within, using affirmations and mantras or speak your truth? Will you start to sing in the car or the shower? Is art your route of expression? Will you use the three gates?