Root Chakra - The Foundation of Our Energy System

What is it?

For those of us who are new to chakras and all that they are and imply, understanding and learning about the root chakra is a good place to start. The root chakra is one of three chakras that are chakras of matter and are physical in nature. It is aptly named because it is the ‘root’ or the foundation of our development. It is named Mūlādhāra (root support) in Sanskrit. Mula meaning “root” and Adhara, which means “support” or “base.” When the root chakra is balanced, it creates a solid base for the other chakras to function.

Why is this important?

We need a good foundation to build upon so we can grow and feel secure. It’s all about basic survival needs like safety, support and being provided for. It makes sense that the element associated with the root chakra is the earth because this chakra is all about being grounded and trusting that the earth will provide what we need for our physical existence and stability.

The location of the root chakra is at the lowest part of the spinal column at the base of the spine in the coccyx (tailbone) area which is why it is called the root chakra and functions as the foundation of the other chakras. It encompasses the first 3 vertebrae, the bladder and the colon.

What Does it All Mean?

The symbolism of the root chakra is also very interesting and appropriate. Each of the chakras share the symbol of the circle which is a universal representation of infinity and the natural cycle of energy. The square represents strength and stability and has a foundational energy that provides a firm structure for the other chakras. The upside down triangle is an alchemical symbol for earth and also symbolizes the spirit connecting with matter and grounding you to the earth, your earthly existence and to your body. The root chakra symbol often includes the syllable लं lam which is the root chakra seed mantra. The four petals represent the four mind states that originate in this chakra: mind, intellect, consciousness and ego. The animal aspect of the root chakra symbol is an elephant, often shown as an elephant with seven trunks, each of these representing one of the seven chakras.

The colour generally associated with the root chakra is red, although it has sometimes been associated with grey, black and brown as well….all earth related colours.

Imbalanced Root Chakra

Emotional	Physical
-restlessness	-bladder problems
-insecurity	-constipation
-anger or short temper	-lower back pain
-impatience	-eating disorders
-greediness	-kidney stones
-materialistic obsession	-weakness in legs

Balancing Your Root Chakra

Yoga
–A Restorative Yoga Sequence for Muladhara Chakra
–6 Yoga Poses To Ground Your Root Chakra
–Yoga Sequence for Root Chakra (Muladhara)
-Root Chakra Yoga Poses to Align and Balance Muladhara

Poses:

TADASANA (Mountain Pose)	SHAVASANA (Corps Pose)	JANU SIRSANSANA (Head to Knee Pose)	PADMASANA (Lotus Pose)
MALASANA (Squat Pose)	VIRABHADRASANA (Warrior Pose)	SETU BANDHASANA (Bridge Pose)	BHUJANGASANA (Cobra Pose)