The Root Chakra | Muladhara Chakra in Yoga

Root Chakra, Muladhara

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THE ROOT CHAKRA

MULADHARA

The first chakra is the root center of physical experience and is typically described as being located at the base of the spine, near the coccyx or tailbone. 

“Heal the chakra that influences physical identity, stability, and sense of safety.”

MULADHARA SYMBOL

First Chakra, Root Chakra, Muladhara

ROOT CHAKRA

Sanskrit: Muladhara 

The root chakra, also known as the first chakra or Muladhara in Sanskrit. The Muladhara chakra has four vermillion petals. The center represents the seed sound LAM. The square represents the Earth itself, the four dimensions, for human completion on all levels. The downward-pointing triangle indicates the downward movement of energy and the three main nadis (subtle channels).

THE ELEMENT OF EARTH

Element of Earth, Root chakra

The root chakra is associated with the element of Earth.  Earth represents stability, grounding, and the foundational aspects of life. Then, it’s considered the foundational chakra, associated with basic survival instincts, grounding, security, and stability.  

The first chakra can be metaphorically compared to the foundation of a house. Just as a solid foundation is crucial for the stability and structure of a house, the root chakra serves as the energetic foundation for the human body and psyche. The magic of having a strong and balanced root chakra is that it opens the doors of the house for the entire chakra system.  It enlightens a home of lights for joy and growth for years to come. This includes your basic needs such as nutrition, water, shelter, and safety, as well as your more emotional needs such as letting go of fear.   

Foundation and Stability:

The root chakra is like the concrete base upon which the entire house is built. It represents our foundation, providing stability, security, and a sense of being grounded.

Support and Security:

Just as a solid foundation supports the weight of the entire house, the root chakra provides a sense of security and support in our lives. It helps us feel safe and rooted in the physical world.

Connection to the Earth:

The root chakra is like the anchor that connects us to the Earth, symbolizing our connection to the physical realm and our basic survival needs like food, shelter, and safety.

Roots and Grounding:

Just as the foundation’s roots extend deep into the ground, the root chakra helps us establish a strong connection to our roots, our ancestry, and the fundamental aspects of life.

Balance and Structure:

A well-built foundation ensures the overall balance and structure of the house. Similarly, a balanced root chakra is essential for maintaining emotional, mental, and spiritual balance in our lives.

Energy Flow and Vitality:

A stable foundation allows for the smooth flow of energy throughout the house. Likewise, a balanced root chakra allows the vital life energy (prana) to flow smoothly through our entire energy system, promoting vitality and well-being.

Material World Connection:

Just as the foundation determines how well a house can integrate into its environment, the root chakra helps us connect with the material world and effectively navigate the challenges and opportunities it presents.

PHYSICAL IDENTITY

 Muladhara: Grounding, Foundation
LocationCoccygeal plexus / Base of the spine.

 

Purpose

 

 

Survival, security, stability, self-acceptance, family connections, control fear, help in grounding, and being comfortable in your body.

 

Issues

 

Work, home, health, family, self-preservation, material world.

 

Glands/Organs

 

Adrenal glands, kidneys, spinal column, colon, anus, bones, legs, feet.  (organs of elimination)
ColorRed. Red of blood, life itself.

 

Element

Earth (Prithvi); walk barefoot in the grass, dig your toes in the sand, or simply spend time in nature.

 

Plane

 

Physical plane.

 

Vital Breath

 

Apana.

Sense

Nose – Smell.

Right

To be/ have here.

 

Demon

 

Fear.

 

Seed Mantra

 

LAM (pronounced lum).  Meditate repeating the sound Lam silently to yourself. All sounds, words, and mantras in their dormant form rest in the Muladhara chakra, where Ganesha resides.

 

Sanskrit Sounds

 

va, scha, sha and sa.

 

Developmental stage

 

Womb – 12 months.

 

Nutrition

 

Eating is the very first chakra activity (elemental to increase energy): proteins, and root vegetables.

 

Affirmation

 

I am safe, protected, and secure. All is as it should be.

 

Exercise benefits 

 

Increase blood and lymphatic flow to the digestive and reproductive area and the entire base of the spine.

Strengthen and tone the lower body, including quads, hamstrings, buttocks, and pelvic floor.

Root Chakra, Muladhara Chakra, First Chakra, Root Chakra Yoga Poses

IMBALANCE

Do you experience anxiety, a lack of physical energy, or a sense of being ungrounded?

When there is an imbalance in the root chakra, it can manifest in various ways, affecting both physical and emotional well-being. Here are some common manifestations of an imbalanced root chakra:

UNDERACTIVE ROOT CHAKRA (Hypofunction):

Fear and Anxiety:

Persistent fear, anxiety, and feelings of insecurity about survival, money, or basic needs.

Lack of Focus and Discipline:

Difficulty concentrating, staying organized, or setting and achieving goals.

Financial Instability:

Constant financial struggles and difficulty in managing finances effectively.

Lethargy and Lack of Energy:

Low energy levels, lack of motivation, and a sense of fatigue or lethargy.

 

OVERACTIVE ROOT CHAKRA (Hyperfunction):

Excessive Materialism:

Overemphasis on material possessions, status, and wealth to the detriment of other aspects of life.

Hoarding and Greed:

A tendency to hoard possessions or money, or an insatiable desire for more without satisfaction.

Overwhelming Aggression or Anger:

Frequent outbursts of anger, aggression, or a short temper disproportionate to the situation.

Obsession with Security:

Over-preoccupation with security and fear of change or taking risks.

Balancing the root chakra involves practices aimed at restoring a sense of stability, security, and groundedness. Techniques such as meditation, grounding exercises, yoga, specific breathing exercises (pranayama), mindful awareness, connecting with nature, and focusing on your basic needs in a healthy and balanced way can help restore equilibrium to the root chakra.

It’s important to note that chakra imbalances are holistic, and working on balancing the root chakra may involve addressing other chakras as well to achieve overall harmony and well-being. If you’re experiencing persistent imbalances or emotional difficulties, consulting with a qualified healthcare professional or energy healer may be beneficial.

NOW REPEATING 3 TIMES

Loud or in Silent

“I draw the healing energies of Mother Earth into my being and return truthfulness.”

In summary, the root chakra is the foundational energy center that provides stability, security, and a sense of connection to the physical world, much like the foundation of a house provides stability and support for the entire structure. Balancing and nurturing the root chakra is essential for a well-rounded and harmonious life.

MEDITATION

YOGA PRACTICE

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Nancy M.Sc, ERYT-500

Bound Angle Pose – Baddha Konasana

I love connecting with great yogis. Being inspired by the teachings of renowned yogis, my passion for sharing the teachings of ancient science within modern practice is absolutely stunning.

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