What the Solar Plexus Really Is

1. Anatomically

The solar plexus (also called the celiac plexus) is a large network of nerves located:

• below the sternum

• above the navel

• in front of the diaphragm

It is one of the biggest nerve centres in the body.

It connects to and influences:

• the stomach

• the liver

• the gallbladder

• the pancreas

• the intestines

• the diaphragm

• the autonomic nervous system (fight–or–flight)

This is why you feel emotions in your stomach ,stress, fear, excitement, anxiety ,the nerves here react instantly.

2. How It Feels in Daily Life

The solar plexus is involved when you experience:

• butterflies

• knots in the stomach

• breath that feels stuck

• sudden warmth or tension

• stress hitting you “in the gut”

It’s where many emotions show up physically.

3. Why It Gets Tight or Blocked

Because it’s tied to the stress response, it tightens with:

• emotional overload

• fear or uncertainty

• chronic stress

• not expressing emotions

• fatigue

• pressure or mental strain

When the diaphragm tightens, digestion and breath can also feel restricted.

4. How to Relax It

People often find relief with:

• slow belly breathing

• diaphragm stretches

• gentle pressure or self-massage

• warmth (hand, hot compress)

• relaxation techniques

• yoga

• reflexology (working the solar plexus reflex point on the foot can help calm the nervous system)

5. In Energetic Traditions

In yoga and meditation, the solar plexus corresponds to the Manipura chakra, the centre of:

• willpower

• confidence

• personal strength

• motivation

• inner fire

A balanced solar plexus is linked with clarity, action, and self-esteem.