Demystifying Yoga: The Root Chakra

Root Chakra Basics

According to yogic philosophy, chakras are wheels of energy located along the full length of the spine — from the root to the top of the head. Each chakra is associated both with physical areas of the body and with specific issues and experiences in our lives.

The first chakra is called muladhara or “root chakra.” Located at the base of the spine near the tailbone, the root chakra also includes the plevic floor, legs and feet. This chakra is associated with the color red and is concerned with satisfying basic needs such as food, shelter and safety. When the first chakra is in balance, you can trust that your survival needs will be met. A balanced root chakra also manifests itself as steady and strong personal relationships. 

Blocked Root Chakra

When you are deficient in root chakra, your sense of support and grounding disappears. This may lead to you being closed off from real connection with others. In order to balance out your root chakra, you can incorporate grounding postures into your yoga practice. 

Poses to awaken your Root Chakra: Tadasana (Mountain Pose), Warrior I, Standing Forward Fold

Overactive Root Chakra

An excess in this chakra can lead to signs of greed, hoarding of possessions and an attempt to ground yourself through excess weight gain. You can also act inflexible and may feel worried constantly. If this is the case, try some yoga poses that will draw attention away from the crown of your head. These postures will ground the body and calm the nervous system while still maintaining length in the spine. 

Poses to soothe your Root Chakra: Sitting Cross-Legged, Lotus, Seated Forward Fold