The Root Chakra - Muladhara

Muladhara means “the root and basis of existence,” and is sometimes translated as “foundation.” As the lowest chakra on the body, this spot is close to our center of gravity. The root chakra is associated with grounding, stability, and connection to the world around us.

Many of us struggle with feelings of instability or disconnection from our deeper selves. Awakening your root chakra and tending to its energies can help us access and even build upon the stability of our inner strengths. When you stand upon a firm foundation, you are better able to live with intention and integrity, and less susceptible to the changing winds of life. 

Location of the Root Chakra

The root chakra is at the base of our spine, near the tailbone. Many people find it easiest to connect with their root chakra when seated flat or cross-legged on the ground. You can also stand barefooted on the ground and feel the “rootedness” of your body, which is centered at the base of your spine.

Symbols of the Root Chakra

The root chakra is associated with the color red - the first color in the prismatic rainbow. It’s also the first chakra on the body, if you’re counting upwards from the earth. This connects to its “foundational” nature. Red is the most common color in our bodies, being present at birth and always within us in our blood and organs. The root chakra is similarly intertwined with our bodies and connection to the physical world. 

The root chakra is also symbolized by a four-petaled lotus. Four is a strong and stable number - think of a table or chair with four legs, sturdy and reliable. This chakra is associated with the element of earth, again underscoring its importance to our foundation and sense of groundedness. 

Working with the Root Chakra

Because the root chakra is the base, or foundation, for our energies, it’s important for establishing a strong bedrock for your energy work.

Yoga poses that emphasize strength and stability, and help you feel your body’s connectedness to the earth, are excellent for connecting with and awakening this chakra. Taking walks outside and focusing on the movement of your feet and their interactions with the earth, is another way to begin working with this chakra.

Meditations and spiritual practices that focus on stability and your inner strength are also key for root chakra work. Consider meditating, in a seated position that allows you to feel and breathe into your root chakra’s location, on one of the following mantras:

Visualizations often help in chakra work. When meditating with, or working to awaken, your root chakra, try imagining yourself as a tree with strong, deep roots that keep you stable through winds and storms. Or, picture a soft red energy flowing from your root chakra down into the ground and connecting you to the strength of the earth. 

Crystals for the Root Chakra

Since the root chakra is associated with the earth, any natural stone is good for connecting with its energies. But its deep red color makes certain healing crystals especially strong for root chakra work. Red Jasper, Mahogany Obsidian, and Bloodstone are excellent choices for someone looking to begin their crystal work with their root chakra. Many sources also cite Hematite as a stone especially linked to the root chakra as well.