Muladhara Chakra, The Root Chakra
This is the 1st of the 7 major chakras (energy centres) within the human body.
Location- Base of the spine / lowest part of the torso / perineum.
Element- Earth
Colour- Red
Sound- Lam
The Base Of Human Consciousness
This chakra is the base of human consciousness and that which makes us different from animals. It is the basis and starting point of spiritual development. In yogic philosophy, it is believed that our kundalini energy (energy of spiritual development) lays dormant here until we awaken it. Our kundalini energy is often represented as a serpent, laying coiled at the base of the spine. When we work with the chakras and with this energy, the serpent can begin it’s journey from the base of the spine, through the other 6 chakras and out through the crown of the head. When this pathway is clear, and our kundalini energy can rise freely from the base of the spine to the crown of the head, we can achieve Samadhi (enlightenment).
Energy Connections to the Physical Body & Physical Dysfunctions
All of our 7 major chakras have energetic connections to the physical body. Our first chakra is connected to our spinal column, rectum, legs, bones, feet and immune system. Imbalances in first chakra energy can cause physical dysfunctions such as lower back pain, sciatica and depression.
Physical family, Group Safety and Tribal Power.
The first chakra is formed when you are 0-7 years. It is during this time that you rely completely on your parents and family members (your tribe) as you aren’t capable of looking after yourself. It is very important to feel safe, supported and loved during this time, for the healthy development of your 1st chakra. Early family issues can manifest later in life as ‘first chakra problems’ either physically. mentally, emotionally or all of the above.
How Imbalances can manifest Mentally and Emotionally
Feeling unsafe and unsupported within your life.
Not feeling grounded.
Financial worries.
Feeling as if you don’t have a home, or a place in society.
Lacking the ability to stand up for yourself.
We can often feel these things, even when everything around us is in place. Even when we are safe and supported and have stability. These feelings are perhaps a sign that Muladhara is out of balance and you would benefit from working with this energy centre.
Practices for Muladhara Chakra-
Meditation
Feeling a little unsettled and need some grounding? Try this simple meditation technique for Muladhara Chakra.
Find a comfortable seated position with your spine straight. You can be cross legged on a cushion, or on a chair if that is more comfortable for you.
Close your eyes and begin to connect to your physical presence and your physical body. How does your body feel? The earth element within your body is directly related to this chakra. Feel the parts of your body that have contact with the floor. Feel your feet, legs and hips. Allow your awareness to settle at the base of your spine, the location of your Muladhara Chakra.
As you fix your awareness to this point, visualise the colour red filling this area. As you inhale send your breath down into this area. As you exhale, send your energy down into the earth, through your legs and your feet.
Our aim is to ground our energy, to get our focus out of our heads and back to the earth. feeling its support, its stability, its foundation and nurturing energy. Mother earth will always support us in all that we do in our lives. Our feet are always planted on the ground, in the present moment, and this meditation can help us to realise this.
Practice this simple technique for 5-10 minutes.
Affirmations
Once you have completed your meditation, stay seated for a few more minutes and repeat some of these affirmations to yourself. These words and their connotations work directly with your Muladhara Chakra. Pick which ever ones you like best, and repeat them quietly to yourself.
I Am Safe.
I Am Supported.
I Am Grounded here in the present moment.
All is well in my present moment.
This Earth supports me.
My needs are provided for.
I have enough, I have everything that I need.
I have a strong foundation. It supports me in all that I do.
I Belong.
In our 7 weeks through the 7 chakras course we work with affirmations and meditations such as these, along with asana (postures), pranayama (breathing techniques) and mantra chanting. Get in touch to find out if there is a space available on our next course starting Wednesday 5th September 2018, or join a Yoga Class or Yoga Retreat in Palm Cove with Hartig Yoga.
All the best,
The Hartig Yoga Team x