At the inner core of each of us, there are seven energy centers spinning like round wheels; they are called chakras. A consciousness oriented about the nature of our life, integrating body, mind and spirit. The chakras are the energy centers that govern the organization, taking in, absorbing and transmitting the life energy. Understanding the chakras enables us to recognize where we are unconsciously, to free ourselves from invisible burdens, and to be uplifted inwardly. Chakras belong to the auric bodies, which are not physical but only abstract forms. Through Kirlian photography, chakras can be photographed to prove their existence. It has been shown that when a person is in a negative mood, the corresponding chakra shrinks to the size of a button, while when the same person is in a positive mood, the chakra is as big as a wheel. This shows the effect of human emotions on energy.
What is root chakra?
Root chakra is one of the seven primary chakras according to Hindu tantrism. It is symbolized by a lotus with four petals and the colour pink or red. This chakra center is depicted as a lotus with four petals and a square in the center, and the square is used in many systems to refer to the material world. Why four petals? This is because each chakra, consists of a number of smaller vortices. These vortices are neatly arranged within the larger chakra cone, like the petals of a flower. The root chakra has only four small vortices, so it is visualized as a four-petaled lotus. Within this square is a small inverted triangle that connects to the pipe of the middle chakra. It represents the power of the bottom chakra connecting downward to the earth.
It is located between the perineum and the coccyx. It is the center of the individual's emotional and mental equilibrium as well as instinctual awareness. At the most basic level, the root chakra relates to needs. It governs one's sense of stability, security, strength and commitment, and is responsible for self-protection and a sense of groundedness.
What happens when the root chakra is unblocked?
The root chakras record our earliest life experiences and are very important to our survival. Bruyère said in The Chakras of Light that "nothing happens that is not present in the root chakra." The root chakra manages our physical presence and needs, including sexuality and passion, as well as our basic needs to sustain our existence, such as money, shelter, food, and loving relationships. When the root chakra is out of alignment, it usually leads to conflict avoidance, fear of not having basic needs met, or a scarcity mindset. There may be feelings of disconnection, voicelessness or powerlessness, or one may be stuck, lost, stagnant, tired or frivolous. The root chakra happens to be the foundation of the other chakras. Therefore, a blockage in the root chakra can compromise the balance and strength of each of the chakras above it. Once the root chakra begins to open, especially after a long period of blockage, you can expect some significant improvements in your emotional, mental, and physical well-being.
Several symptoms when your root chakra is an imbalance
- Feeling lethargic and low energy all day long
- Low mood, often feeling depressed
- Feeling anxious all the time
- Lack of concentration
- Feeling unable to trust others
See also: Spiritual Awakening: Open Your Third Eye Chakra
How to Open Your Root Chakra?
1. Try pranayama
Pranayama is a foundational practice in yoga and is often referred to as the control or regulation of breath. Together, pranayama can be understood as the conscious regulation, control, and expansion of one's life force or breath. Pranayama techniques involve specific breathing patterns, rhythms, and breath retention to influence the flow of prana in the body. It can promote emotional stability and balance by regulating the flow of energy in the body as well as help alleviate feelings of fatigue and lethargy.
2. Meditate
Meditation can be a helpful practice to balance and open your root chakra, which is associated with stability, security, and connection to the physical world. Pay attention to the sensations in your body, especially around your root chakra. Are there any areas of tension or discomfort? Send your breath and attention to these areas to release tension and promote healing.
3. Learn more meditation gestures
Trying more yoga poses is beneficial in helping you meditate and unlock your root chakra.
Anjali Mudra (Prayer Gesture): This is a common mudra where the palms are pressed together in a prayer position at the heart center. It signifies respect, gratitude, and reverence. It's often used at the beginning and end of yoga classes and meditation sessions.
Gyan Mudra (Gesture of Knowledge): In this mudra, the tip of the thumb touches the tip of the index finger, forming a circle, while the other three fingers remain straight. This gesture is believed to improve concentration and enhance mental clarity.
Chin Mudra (Consciousness Gesture): In Chin Mudra, the tip of the thumb touches the tip of the index finger, and the other three fingers are extended. It symbolizes the connection of individual consciousness with universal consciousness and is often used for meditation.
Dhyana Mudra (Meditation Gesture): The Dhyana Mudra involves placing the hands on the lap, right hand resting on top of the left hand, with both palms facing upward and the tips of the thumbs lightly touching. This gesture is commonly used during seated meditation to promote tranquility and concentration.
Vitarka Mudra (Gesture of Teaching): In this gesture, the thumb and index finger touch at the tips while the other three fingers are extended. It represents the transmission of knowledge and is often associated with the teachings of the Buddha.
4. Add red elements
Add red accents to your home or workspace through decor items like throw pillows, curtains, rugs, or artwork. Red can stimulate energy and create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Cook with Red Ingredients: Use red fruits and vegetables like tomatoes, strawberries, red bell peppers, and beets in your meals. Red foods are not only nutritious but also visually appealing.
5. Use sounds to balance your root chakra
Sounds can help open your root chakra, including singing bowls, mantra, gong sounds, etc.Sound therapy is a powerful way to balance and heal the chakras, including the root chakra. Each chakra is associated with a specific sound or mantra, and for the root chakra, the corresponding sound is "LAM." Continue chanting the "LAM" mantra for several minutes, allowing yourself to feel a connection with your root chakra. Feel a sense of security and stability growing within you.
6. Go hiking outside
If you are feeling constant anxiety and mental fogginess due to a clogged root chakra, you may choose to take a break from work and go for a walk. Work and study are not the whole of life, and you should devote some of your energy to nature. If you seldom do outdoor activities but keep on doing intense work or study, your body is prone to some problems. You can spend some quality time outdoors with your family and loved ones on weekends.
7. Get some natural gemstones
Natural gemstones and crystals have long been used in various healing and spiritual practices, including chakra balancing, to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. When it comes to the root chakra (Muladhara), which is associated with stability, security, and connection to the physical world, specific gemstones are believed to provide various benefits. Below are some natural stones proven to be beneficial for activating your root chakra.
Bloodstone
Garnet
Black or red obsidian
Red Jasper
Red tiger's eye
Hematite
Black Tourmaline
Smoky quartz
Chakra stone bracelets made of the natural gemstones mentioned above are great tools for people who insist on meditation. These bracelets are believed to help balance and align the chakras, including the root chakra, through the use of gemstones and crystals associated with each chakra. It's important to note that the effectiveness of chakra stone bracelets and chakra healing practices is a matter of personal belief and spirituality. Scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness is limited. If you're interested in using chakra bead bracelets or other energy healing practices, it's essential to approach them with an open mind and consider them as complementary to conventional medicine.