Muladhara (Root) Chakra

I just love this quote by the poet Rumi. As we explore the chakras in our 8-week session, we begin with the root chakra. This chakra represents grounding, stability, security, and survival. It is hard to manage anything else when these needs are not met, yet sometimes we are so busy intellectualizing our problems (searching the branches) that we forget to start at the beginning (in the roots).

The root chakra calls us to pay closer attention to our basic needs; food, water, shelter, safety, close relationships. If we are not committing to making sure that these needs are met, then we will feel unstable, insecure, anxious, and fearful. Consider that when the wind blows, it is the roots that hold the tree in place during the storm. When you feel fear, turn mindfully to nature, home, nourishing foods, and a trusted friend.

Some yoga poses you can use to explore the muladhara chakra include: easy pose (sukhasana), dandasana (staff pose), and mountain pose (tadasana). These poses help you to feel grounded and require a stable base, drawing energy up from the earth.

When you feel off-balance, take some time to connect with the earth. Go for a walk in nature, barefoot if possible. Sit in the forest. Lie in the sand. Build a fort!

What are some activities you look to when you need to feel grounded? Let me know in the comments!

Check out a yoga nidra (guided meditation) on the Muladhara Chakra here: