The root chakra, also known as the Muladhara chakra is located at the base of the spine at the coccyx bone. It is associated with the earth element and is the first chakra in the seven chakra system.

This is the 1st energy center of our body and all other chakras stem from this foundation. It holds our primal needs, desires, and our overall feelings of safety. It is linked between our energetic system and our physical world.

Our instinctual intelligence resides here. Our support system and feeling like we belong is contained here as well. Self-confidence, feelings of worth, and feeling capable are aspects of this chakra.

Physical Symptoms

When the root chakra is out of balance physical symptoms can take place such as overall low energy levels, problems with elimination, lower back pain, and lower-body issues such as feet or ankle problems.

This may take the form of an unhealthy weight or eating disorders. It can even show up as excessively worrying about your health. The root chakra rules the body parts of the kidneys, colon, adrenal glands, bones, and muscles.

Emotional Symptoms

Emotional symptoms of a root chakra imbalance include financial obsession, fear of risk, lack of self-confidence, cynicism, and self-doubt. Difficulty saying no and lacking trust reside here.

Selfishness, anger, and impulsivity are also characteristics of a root chakra imbalance. Along with controlling behavior, resisting change, and egotistical tendencies.

Root Chakra Healing Meditation

You can work to heal the root chakra through meditation exercises such as this video below. You can also practice grounding techniques such as earthing.

Earthing is the process of connecting to the earth either directly with your skin contact or through a conductive material. The most straightforward way to earth is by walking barefoot on the earth.

It has been proven to neutralize free radicals, which are caused by cell damage, trauma, inflammation, and environmental factors. This will also heal the root chakra and bring you more presently into your body.

Essential Oils For Opening The Root Chakra

You can use essential oils to balance and heal the first chakra. To do so dilute one to two drops of the oil into a carrier oil such as coconut or jojoba oil.

You can simply rub this into your hand and breathe in the aroma or you can incorporate it into your pranayama practice. You may also wish to diffuse these oils in an essential oil diffuser, but if you have animals make sure to check if they are toxic to diffuse around them.

• Cedarwood
• Frankincense
• Patchouli
• Black Pepper
• Vetiver
• Sandalwood

Further Reading

You can continue to learn more about the seven chakras by clicking here.