Each chakra is related to different parts of the mind, body and spirit. By learning about their traits, we have a tool to enter into the sacred inner space of relationship between mind, body and spirit.
Embracing the Chakra System
The chakra system offers the mind and body a tool with which to communicate. It covers every aspect of the mind, body and spirit within its matrix.
Muladhara is the Sanskrit word for root support. It is the basis, the beginning and foundation for the chakras to come. Without a strong and resonate root chakra, the rest of one’s life can feel as though its on shaky ground, as though no matter what one does, it does not make a difference and feelings of despair and depression may settle in.
Fundamentals of the Root Chakra
- Name: root chakra
- Element: earth
- Sanskrit name: muladhara
- Colour: red
- Archetype: earth mother
- Position in the body: base of the spine
- Associated endocrine gland: adrenal medulla
- Physiological form and functions: excretory, reproductive, immune system, spine, skeleton, bone marrow, chronic fatigue, back pain, sciatica, varicose veins, depression, rectal tumours, immune disorders, HIV
- Emotional or spiritual functions: grounding, fear and safety issues, basic survival instincts. Lack of relationship with the earth, dysfunction of the self in the group. The root chakra anchors the spirit to one’s physical life and the physical world. This chakra holds painful, emotional memories of violence. Chronic fear, paranoia and suspicion of the world.
- Linked to: the earth, roots, sense of connectedness to soil, flowers, trees, environment
- Affirmation: I belong here
- Asanas: All standing poses, especially the warrior poses and Mountain Pose
- Gifts connected to the root chakra: gifts of the earth – food and shelter
- Level of relationship: tribal, social groupings including family, place of employment, societies, culture, heritage religion and other traditions.
- Identification of weak root chakra: Feeling threatened or unsafe in the world, being disconnected from the place you call home, being homeless and hungry, feelings of alienation
‘I take off the mask’, a spiritual health webpage, suggests asking yourself some questions about one’s root chakra. They include
- ‘Do you feel unsure of yourself and your financial position?’
- ‘Do you feel obsessed with material possessions and unable to exist without them?’
Both questions point to a depleted or swollen root chakra, and thus a lack of balance.
As with the root chakra, all of the seven major chakras of the human body hold the secrets of personal development. Understanding and utilising the system can help students overcome negativity and develop strong, loving and balanced lives.
Healthy, Balanced Chakas is the previous article in this series. The sixth article on the sacral chakra is entitled Sacral Chakra Basics.
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