The root chakra is the first chakra. The Sanskrit term for the Root Chakra is Muladhara, which combines the syllables Mula (Root) and adhara (base, foundation).
The Root Chakra is our foundation, the stable and solid ground all human evolution rests upon. Just as a tree needs its roots to be nourished and stable, so too does the human being need a healthy root chakra to grow and evolve.
It’s associated with preservation and security, whether it’s physical regarding our bodily needs or material goods such as food, shelter and finances. It supports us in growing and feeling safe into exploring all the aspects of being.
Its energy is based on the earth element. Earth represents the body, physicality and solid form in general.
Where is the Root Chakra?
The first chakra or root chakra is located in and at the base of the spine – specifically the coccyx . The corresponding body locations are the perineum, along the first three vertebrae, at the pelvic plexus.
Key characteristics of the root chakra
The root chakra is associated with the following functions or behavioral characteristics:
- Security, safety
- Survival
- Basic needs (food, sleep, shelter, self-preservation, etc.)
- Physicality, physical identity and aspects of self
- Grounding
- Support and foundation for living our lives
At the emotional and mental level, an imbalanced or blocked root chakra are related to
- Excessive negativity, cynicism (due to various fears)
- Greed, avarice (due to feelings of lack)
- Eating disorders (due to fear or greed)
- Excessive feeling of insecurity, living on survival mode constantly (fight or flight)
- Depression (due to excess earth element and living in the past – heavy negative thoughts)
- Repression * not expressing healthy fear, security, safety, physical identity, support etc. due to blockage
- Illusion (No solid foundation to establish a healthy reality due to blockage)
A person who energy is primarily focused in the first chakra might feel stuck and find it hard to make changes. They may live in a lot of fear and constantly in preservation mode. The desire for security often dominates and can translate into concerns and fears over job situations, physical safety, shelter and health.
Moving out of the root chakra and expanding the energy
In order to do this one must be open and willing to make change and evolve as a human being. It requires an open mind and often a desire or will to have a greater purpose and meaning in life. It can mean letting go of the past and inviting new ideas that create motivation and enthusiasm. Physical exercise, movement, various breathing exercises and passion/purpose can be helpful.
Opening a blocked root chakra
There are many ways to open your root chakra. For example, one can engage more in grounding and earth-related activities such as earthing, connection with nature, gardening, hiking, eating healthy and cooking with earth element foods, grounding yoga, meditation, visualizations and mantras.
A helpful idea is to work at growing your “roots” in a safe and comfortable environment – surrounding yourself with earth colors and objects reminding you of nature. Slowing down and giving yourself time to be still, rest and relax is also beneficial. Practicing a Chakra Yoga Routine can also be very beneficial.