Muladhara Chakra

In Sanskrit, Mula means “root ” or “base,” Dhara means "support" and Chakra means “wheel” or "vortex of Prana" meaning "life force energy."

The Root Chakra as it it also referred to as is the first energy center, located between the genitals and the anus and is seen as the framework of the individual existence of humanity, giving us an outlet to express ourselves as an individualized being as well as a platform to more elevated levels of understanding.

This energy center is where Kundalini resides, representing the unique faculty of self awareness and understanding that normally remains unused. This understanding comes from Yoga, while the Buddhist see the Kundalini as residing in Manipura Chakra.

This is because they see the start of a spiritual path with Manipura Chakra, considering Muladhara and Svadhisthana Chakras as mainly instinctive and little awareness.

The Sushumna Nadi or the central Nadi meaning "energetic pathway" that starts in this Chakra, ending in Sahasrara Chakra and is the channel that the Kundalini uses to move up from Chakra to Chakra.

This energy center is associated with our survival instincts, basic needs, security, shelter, food, fight or flight response as well as the immune system, bones, legs, feet and the rectum.

This Chakra is also linked to the unconscious mind and is the store house of Karmas meaning "actions" from past lives.

Essential Information

Color: Red

Mantra: LAM

Element: Earth

Balancing Stones and Crystals: Black Obsidian, Ruby, Red Garnet and Red Jasper

Essential Oils: Cedar, Rosewood, Rosemary, Sandalwood, Clove and Ginger

Location: This Chakra is located for men, between the anus and the genitals and for women, the location is at the cervix

Gland: For men the testis and in women the ovaries

Chakra Symbology

The color red of this Chakra symbolizes awakening of the sleeping Consciousness.

One meaning of the inverted triangle points to the Cosmic energy is pulled in and guided downwards.

Another meaning is an upward movement of Consciousness.

The downward pointing tip of the triangle points to the unfolding of Consciousness towards human consciousness.

Signs of a balanced Root Chakra

Good health and abundant energy.

Material prosperity.

General sense of well being and satisfaction with life.

Feeling grounded and centered.

Ease of letting things go that are no longer needed.

Feeling of security and safety.

Ease of acknowledgment and acceptance of basic needs.

Imbalance in the Root Chakra

Excessive negativity and cynicism.

Eating disorders.

Greed and avarice.

Illusion.

Living in survival mode daily.

Short temper and anger.

This Chakra is also referred to as

Base Chakra

1st Chakra

Practices for the Root Chakra

The following practices are intended to clear and balance Muladhara. You are encouraged to use these practices individually or combine them together with other practices for a more effective practice. As you go about your day, you can also bring your awareness to this Chakra. This practice is sometimes referred to as Muladhara Yoga.

Root Chakra Meditation

Mantra for the Root Chakra

The Bija Mantra or seed Mantra for the Chakra is LAM. Chanting this Mantra during practice and while in a walking state will help to clear and balance this Chakra. While chanting this Bija Mantra, visualize the color red at this Chakra.

Color therapy for the Root Chakra

Wearing clothing in the color red is good way to use the sense of sight to help clear and balance this Chakra.

Preform Shavasana or lay down on the back, place a gemstone that is associated with this Chakra at the Chakra.

While Meditating, visualize the color red coming from this Chakra.

Eating red fruits and vegetables. Negatively Pranic foods or night shades such as peppers should be avoided.

If you have a practice room hang red sheets on the walls during your practice.