What is the Muladhara Chakra?

In the Hindu chakra system, the muladhara chakra is the first chakra, located at the base of the spine. The chakras are generally described as vortices, or centers of energy, that extend upwards from the base of the spine to a point just above the top of the head. Each chakra corresponds roughly with a feature of human anatomy, such as the heart or throat, and has an associated color, vibrational tone, and mantric syllable. The muladhara chakra, because it is the first chakra in this system, is also called the base or root chakra. Its color is red, its tone is the musical note “C,” and its mantric syllable is “LAM” or "LANG."

Systems for chakra healing and chakra balancing usually begin with the muladhara chakra. Opening the chakra is necessary before any healing can take place, and this can be accomplished by sitting in a meditative posture, preferably cross-legged, and focusing the attention on the chakra while visualizing its attributes. Toning in the note of the chakra while repeating the mantra, using special breathing techniques, moving the body gently around the base of the spine, and holding the hands centered in the lap, one on top of the other with the thumbs touching, are all activities that will help the mind to focus on and open the muladhara chakra.

Spiritual and energy healers say that when any of the chakras are blocked, the result can be distortions in body shape or thought processes, glandular malfunctions, and physical pain. The parts of the body affected by imbalances of the muladhara chakra, according to the chakra system, include the lymph and elimination systems, the skeleton and teeth, the lower limbs, and the prostate gland in men. In addition, the adrenal glands are traditionally associated with the muladhara chakra, and possible results of imbalances in that chakra can include diseases associated those glands.

Practitioners of chakra balancing and chakra healing use a variety of techniques, including yoga, reiki, color therapy, and aromatherapy, as well as physical props like gemstones, crystals, and pendulums. Visualizing the color red in harmonious combination with other colors is one strategy that addresses the muladhara chakra. Aromas that open the chakra are patchouli and sandalwood, while jasmine and wisteria are thought to raise its vibratory level. Gemstones that open the muladhara chakra are blood stone, garnet, and ruby, while those that help to subdue its energies in the event of overstimulation are black tourmaline, hematite, and smokey quartz.