Chakra Series Part 1: Muladhara

Hello, beauties!

I wanted to take a 7-part look into our chakras since they’ve been the primary focus during our live yoga sessions these last several Wednesdays. And - by the way - if you haven’t joined us for a live yoga session yet, do so by clicking here! Feel free to join us live or practice on your own schedule. Either way, we just hope to help keep you healthy and engaged. Now it’s time to get to the good stuff...

The Muladhara, commonly referred to as the Root Chakra, is the first of the seven chakras in your body. Based on the element of earth, this chakra is associated with the feelings of being safe, and grounded. Located at the base of the spine, this chakra establishes the foundation for development in our lives and is associated with many ‘structural’ aspects of our being:

• safety & security
• basic needs (food, water, clothing, shelter)
• physical and emotional identity
• grounding

The root chakra empowers us to explore all aspects of life without fear or hesitation. A balanced root chakra gives us the security and surety to develop to our fullest potential without fear - whether from internal or external stimuli. 

Identifying a Blocked Chakra

Deficiencies or imbalance in the first chakra will most likely be related to, or can be identified by recognizing:

• extreme cynicism
• body dysmorphia/eating disorders/identity issues
• extreme greed, or avarice
• retreating into self-delusions 
• extreme insecurity (feelings of living in ‘survival mode’)

If you feel that your feelings are overwhelmingly ruled by fear, it may be a sign of a blocked chakra. The often panicky feelings associated with fight-or-flight behavior are sure signs that something internally is out of whack, and needs to be addressed and adjusted accordingly. 

Similarly, when the root chakra is overactive, your fear might manifest as greed and paranoia. This may come in the form of loss of control over food intake, compulsive hoarding, or other overly self-centered behaviors. 

Opening Your Root Chakra

The good news? All of the above behaviors are only able to remain present in your life for as long as you allow them to be! There are myriad ways to open your root chakra. One way in which you might unblock this chakra is to take up grounding activities such as gardening, hiking, or volunteering with animals. Surrounding yourself with the colors of this chakra (red) may also help to get you grounded, and out of a rut. 

The concept here is to connect with as many of the ‘roots’ of the physical world as you can. Feeling connected to our environment is hugely important in feeling safe, secure, and eager for continued growth. If the above suggestions do not provide the physical release you’re seeking, yoga may also play an important role, as it provides a physical bridge for the body and mind to share their energy glow. 

Next Steps