Root Chakra:  I HAVE

The first chakra within this energetic system is Muladhara or the Root Chakra.  Balance at this level is critical, as it is the basis and foundation for the entire chakra system.  The Sanskrit translation of Muladhara is “root of existence”.  Mula means root and dhara means flux.  Our roots are the connection to Mother Earth, and the physicality of existence.  When one waters the roots of a tree, naturally every part of that tree is nourished by the water.  So too is the result when one mindfully and intentionally nurtures and supports the all important root chakra.  In doing so, the rest of the chakra system can be nourished, blossom, and flourish as a result of this care.

The root chakra relates to the earth element, and represents form, shape, and solidity – the most dense state of matter, and the “lowest” end of the chakra spectrum.  It is located at the base of the spine, in the area of the perenium.  It is symbolized as a four petaled lotus with a yellow square and downward pointing triangle.  The four petals represent the four intersecting nadis or energetic pathways at this chakra.  Often a Shiva Lingham is depicted here, around which the Kundalini Shakti energy is coiled three and one-half times.

The bija mantra or seed syllable is Lam, and represents the impact of the Divine Energy upon the physical plane.  When chanted, it is believed to energize, balance, and heal this chakra.  The root chakra is visualized in deep, vibrant red, the color with the longest wavelength and slowest vibration in the visible light spectrum.  Common crystals associated with this chakra are Lodestone, Ruby, Garnet, and Bloodstone.  It is connected to the sense of smell.

Chakra 1 is Yang energy – it is the beginning, the foundation, and the single digit of unity.  It is ruled by both of the planets Saturn and Earth.

The root chakra represents survival, abundance, and grounding.  With balance, it brings about the qualities of stillness, security, and stability – the pillars of an excellent foundation.

If one is lacking in any of the key physiological needs (as depicted in Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs) such as air, water, food, shelter, sleep, clothing, and reproduction, then there will be no roots – and chances of spiritual growth are greatly reduced or impossible.  It is critical that these needs be taken care of first and foremost, and this is included as part of balancing and healing this chakra.

Fear is the aspect that impacts this crucial chakra the most, as it is the seat of instinct and survival.  If one lives in excessive or inappropriate levels of fear, it can point to damage at this level that requires practices such as meditation and additional energetic healing work.

Without balance and grounding at the root chakra level, one can become unstable, and can begin to live within a daydream or fantastical world.  Attention continually wanders adrift, away from the present moment, the only thing that is truly real.  Without healing at this level, this can soon become an endless, vicious cycle.

It is said that damage occurs at the astral or subtle levels long before physical symptoms appear.  Long-term muladhara malfunction can manifest in a variety of physical ways, including weight problems, eating disorders, hemorrhoids, constipation, sciatica, degenerative arthritis, and knee problems.

The three astrological signs associated with the earth element are Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn.