Location:

Base of the spine

 

Affirmation: 

I am grounded and secure.

Mantra:

Lam

It is often said that in order to experience growth, we must first be grounded in a strong foundation. Like a tree, the only way to ascend to greater heights is to get our roots firmly in place. As they say in yoga, “Root down to rise up.” The first chakra, the Root Chakra, is our primal source for creating that firm foundation. Located in the base of the spine, the Root Chakra anchors us to the solidity of the earth, allowing us to feel safe, stable, and secure. This chakra is all about survival and ensures our most basic needs are met. This includes both our physical needs-like food and shelter- as well as psychological ones, such as an inner sense of safety and trust in the world. Physically, the Root Chakra rules over the large intestine, feet, legs, back, skeletal structure, and blood.

When the Root Chakra is aligned, we feel safe, grounded, and strong. We have faith in the universe and feel provided for, knowing that our most essential needs are taken care of and fulfilled. A balanced Root Chakra is essential not only to our survival but to personal growth. When the Root Chakra is properly balanced, it nourishes the courage and assurance necessary to embrace change, take on new challenges, and explore.

Out of Balance:

An imbalanced Root Chakra can manifest in excessive anxiety and deep insecurity. There’s a sense of lack in your life and everything can feel like a threat. Your behaviors are driven more by fear than by an authentic desire to pursue the things you want. You might also feel greedy or paranoid, haunted by the feeling that there is simply not enough to go around. Physically, you might experience lethargy and notice pain in your feet or legs. Experiencing a sore back? Time to check in on your Root Chakra.

How To Heal Your Root Chakra:

Working with Root Chakra gemstones like Red Jasper, Smoky Quartz, and Red Garnet are excellent ways to rebalance your Root Chakra. Or try meditating with essential oils like Sandalwood and Vetiver. Another way to get grounded is with a rejuvenating walk through nature that lets you feel the earth beneath your feet. Because the Root Chakra influences security, doing something to help you feel safe, like spending time with loved ones, is also a great option.

 

Gemstones: 

Red Carnelian

Increases overall strength and courage.

Red Garnet

Removes energy blockages. Grounds and strengthens the spirit.

Red Jasper

Sparks determination. Centers the spirit and grounds you in stability.

Smoky Quartz

Encourages stability and balance. Mitigates fear.

Essential Oils:

  • Sandalwood: Uplifting and balancing. Grounds the spirit, inspires a sense of protection, and eases fear.
  • Vetiver: Calming and grounding. Centers and stabilizes the spirit during times of anxiety or unease.
  • Cedarwood: Balancing and strengthening. Boosts endurance and connects you to the earth’s grounding energy.
  • Frankincense: Purifying and inspiring. Calms fears and eases racing thoughts.
  • Myrrh: Clearing and balancing. Centers the body and balances the emotions.

Mudras:

Abhaya: Encourages fearlessness and personal grounding.

Prithivi: Supports posture and centers the spirit.

Yoga Poses:

Warrior 1:

Creates a grounding, powerful stance to improve balance and bodily awareness. Strengthens the legs and feet for overall stability.

Tree:

Strengthens the legs and feet for better balance and stability. Elevates posture while boosting confidence and self-esteem.