Muladhara - Root Place

Element - Earth

Color - Red

Symbol

The symbol for the first, or root chakra is in the shape of a square. It symbolizes the earth, and or foundation, the grounding of the body to the earth. The symbol is red in color and consists of downward pointing triangle – the symbol for female sexuality, within the triangle is a linga – the symbol for male sexuality. The snake – a symbol for the kundalini coils three and one half times around the linga, in addition the outside of the triangle is surrounded by 4 lotus blossom petals.

Location

The Root Chakra is situated below the sacrum bone, or base of the tailbone, in which resides the Kundalini.

Aspects of the Root Chakra

Its main aspect is innocence. This center of force symbolizes the objective consciousness, the awareness in the physical, terrestrial universe.

All other chakras are downstream of the root chakra, the root chakra is the gateway for energy to pass into the other chakras. This is also the place where the kundalini resides, throughout history dragons and snakes have been associated with it.

On a psychical level, it controls the will of survival, the state of inner safety, the desire for material goods, and the choice of profession. It is related to the adrenal gland, the kidneys and the spinal column in the physical body.

This is the chakra or energy center that grounds us to the earth. Keeping the chakra open is essential to being grounded. Expressions like “Getting on your feet again” convey a connection to, and an open Root Chakra. When the Root Chakra is closed you may feel as if you are floating and your feet do not touch the ground.

Area of the face related to the Root Chakra

Nose, chin, jaw and lips.

Sense

Your sense of smell is connected to the Root Chakra. Touch as experienced by the multitude of nerve ending in and around the lips.

Glands and Organs

Blood, spine, nervous system, bladder, male reproductive organs, testes, and vagina are all influenced by the Root Chakra.

Balancing the Root Chakra

Sound

Tone and note that will stimulate the chakra are, tone E and note C. Tibetan singing bowls that play the note of C are a good way to open the Root chakra, although even a piano or a guitar playing the C note can produce the same effect.

Scent

Sandalwood, lavender, geraniums, and patchouli are the scents associated with the Root Chakra. Placing geraniums or lavender flowers in your home, and the use of sandalwood or patchouli essential oil or incense are excellent for balancing the Root Chakra.

Physical Methods

Yoga and dancing are excellent. Digging with your hands into the earth, going barefoot, and taking care of plants. An exercise would be:

• Stand straight and relaxed
• Your feet should be shoulder width apart
• Bend slightly at your knees
• Move your pelvis somewhat forward our body so your weight is over your feet
• Sink your weight down to your feet

Affirmations

• I know that the choices I make are based on what I know to be right for me
• I am grounded in my body to the earth
• I am supported through all my choices in life