Introduction to the Muladhara Chakra
Meditation is a tool that has been used for centuries to awaken the spirit and to provide peace for the mind. It is also used to heal energy within the body and soul. One of the best meditation techniques for healing and balancing energy within the body is chakra meditation.
Every person has seven energy vortexes called chakras that work to modulate and balance the internal energy. Located along the spine from the base all the way up to the top of the head, each chakra has different functions.
The first chakra is called the “Muladhara” or the “root chakra.” It is located below the genitals and above the anus at the base of the spine in the area of the perineum. It governs the spinal column, kidneys, legs, feet, rectum and immune system. If this chakra is damaged or blocked it can cause lower back pain, dysfunctional immune system, kidney and rectal problems, varicose veins and depression and many other issues related to those areas.
Certain behaviors are characteristic of the Muladhara chakra. Because the energy in this first chakra is influenced by the earth element which is associated with the desire for security it is not surprising that people who are dominated by this chakra seek security in all areas of life. They will work hard for their boss in order to maintain a secure position.
Because security is their main goal they are often greedy and self centered. When they perceive any threat real or imagined to their security they can become violent and lash out unexpectedly. If this Chakra is damaged or blocked an individual may find it difficult to support themselves and their family. This causes them to be resentful, angry and fearful.
Generally people who are not in balance with this chakra will sleep and eat more than a person who is in balance. They tend to behave like children who are not taught how to cope with life. Like children they need more guidance and learn best by example. It is much better to show them how to behave than to reprimand or punish.
In order to avoid these destructive behaviors a person who is dominated by this chakra will need to follow the yamas and niyamas which are restraints and practices that indicate moderation when eating, sleeping and engaging in sexual relations. This prevents them from becoming absorbed in the physical world.
The element associated with the Muladhara is the earth. Therefore, any chakra meditation technique will first instruct you on how to ground yourself to the element of earth. This is usually done by visualizing yourself having roots that connect from the base of your spine or your feet into the ground. Grounding will give you a sense of being a part of the earth and it being a part of you.
A common technique for this chakra is to meditate on the tip of the nose. The nose is the sense organ for this chakra and meditating on it will induce awareness, freedom from illness, vitality, stamina, security, and lightness. One can achieve inner purity and softness just by focusing and meditating on the tip of the nose.
There is so much more to learn about Chakra meditation techniques, it is not a simple practice. There are so many aspects to each of the seven chakras and each one has intricate meanings and interactions. If you are interested in this powerful form of meditation, take the time to become familiar with each of the chakras and the elements they are associated with.