In Sanskrit, chakra means “wheel” and is often translated by “vortex”. According to yogic scriptures, these energy centers regulate the vital energy or prana that flows in the subtle (aka psychic) body – psychological, emotional & mental. There are 7 main chakras, each with its own distinctive features, located along the sushumna, the energy channel which flows through the center of the spinal cord, starting at the perineum and ending at the top of the head. The chakras are symbolized with lotus flowers, each having a particular number of petals and color, representing the different manifestations of psychic energy associated to it. As everything else in the universe, they vibrate at a specific frequency, and resonate with and are affected by sound vibration.
Also known as the Root Chakra, or Muladhara in Sanskrit, the first chakra is located at the very base of the spine, in the perineum area. It is the foundation upon which rest all the other chakras. It is connected to the earth element and associated to the sense of smell.
Mulhadara chakra is symbolized by a deep red lotus with four petals, with at its center a yellow square. In the center of the square is red triangle with its apex pointing downward. It is said to be the seat of Kundalini Shakti, the primal energy, represented by a sleeping coiled snake. The aim of yoga is to awaken the dormant Kundalini through self-purification and concentration and to lead it up to the Crown Chakra or Sahasrara in Sanskrit, to unite with pure consciousness.
Muladhara chakra rules the feeling of survival (the satisfaction of the primal needs like food, water, sleep, shelter), belonging and security. When it is balanced, it gives us stability and self-confidence. When unbalanced or blocked, it leads to low self-esteem, carelessness and anxiousness.
To strengthen or regulate this chakra, traditional yoga recommends to practice rooting postures like Vrksasana (tree posture) or the Muladhara mudra.
- Element : Earth
- Colour : Red
- Seed sound (or bija mantra) : Lam
- Deity : Ganesh
- Animal : Elephant
Here’s a playlist I created to help balance this chakra. This particular musical journey is really a vision quest, in my mind. An invitation, via traditional instruments, rhythms and voices from all over the planet, to a deep exploration of Muladhara. May it help you feel grounded and find the stability and calm that come with a balanced, centered root.
InnerFlow 