The Chakra Series: Muladhara (Root)

Where it is: Tailbone, Legs, Bone, Excretory Organs, Adrenal Glands

Colour: Red

Element: Earth

Mantra: LAM

Qualities: Groundedness, Basic Needs, Safety, Survival, Health, Animal Instincts, Stability

This is the first chakra. It is located at the base of the spine, extending down to our feet, and is associated with bones, the excretory organs and the adrenal glands. The base chakra is all about groundedness and feeling secure. When we have the sense of stability, home, health and security in our basic needs, it indicates a balanced root chakra.

Physically, this chakra is associated with our animal instincts and feeling secure that our needs for survival are met. The organs of excrement and the production of adrenaline are the basic physical functions of this chakra. When you think about the animal instinct of detecting danger, the fight or flight response is triggered. This is directly connected to our adrenal glands. When we feel the need to look after our survival, adrenaline is produced to help us decide whether fight or flight.

Emotionally, a person can feel a sense of groundedness and home even when they are travelling or caught in an unexpcted situation. This is why in a yoga class your teacher might encourage you to imagine roots extending into the earth from your feet. It’s to show you that you can feel a sense of home and security no matter where you are.

A balanced Muladhara chakra will have these qualities: Stability, Self-Confidence, Sense of Belonging, Vitality

An unbalanced Muladhara chakra will have these qualities: Fear, Instability, Hostility, Anger, Money Worries, Insecurity

Ways to connect with and balance your Muladhara chakra:

Yoga Practice: Mula Bandha, Tree Pose, Seated Forward Fold, Tadasana, Warrior I, Savasana

Affirmations: I am grounded, stable and secure. I have all that I need. I am safe. I am at home in myself and I feel secure no matter where I am or what I am doing.