Solar plexus

The solar plexus, also known as the celiac plexus or plexus cœliacus, is an autonomous cluster of nerve cells (see Plexus) in the human body behind the stomach and below the diaphragm near the celiac artery in the abdominal cavity. The solar plexus consists of two ganglia, called celiac ganglia, and a nerve network connecting the two ganglia. The solar plexus controls functions of the internal organs as for example adrenal secretion and the contraction in the intestines.

A blow to the stomach, halfway between the navel and the heart may also put pressure on this nerve cluster, creating great pain.

Other similar nerve centres are the cardiac plexus near the heart, or the hypogastric plexus in front of the last lumbar vertebra.

The solar plexus is also considered a energy node according to Hinduism, called the manipura chakra.