Be Sati

I AM: Muladhara Chakra

Connect to the Mula, the root, at the base of your spine.  Its luminous disc glows red, the color of ancient clay.  Chant “LAM” (laaaahm) as you lightly press your thumb and little finger together. Be aware of the obvious and subtle sensations percolating through your body.  You are here.  Right now.  This is you, in your body, and you are steady, steadfast, and stable.

The deep roots of a harmonious and balanced Muladhara Chakra give you the courage to rise up and meet the challenges of life with grace and dignity.  You take healthy risks because you know you have a place to land.  You feel nourished, receiving the Earth elements that you need to thrive.  You feel supported by and connected to others.

When Depleted…

When the Mula is depleted, you are fearful and unsure.  Your basic needs are not met.  You are disconnected from your body.  You seek attention and pleasure through the actions and whims of others.  Be careful — in this vulnerable state you are easily manipulated.  

When Overcharged…

With an overcharged Muladhara Chakra you are driven to aquire more and more material things, seeking pleasure and support from that which cannot last.  This leads to frustration and disappointment as you know on a deep level that objects cannot fulfill you.  Appearances matter most, and you are disconnected from your inner environment.  You are as stubborn and unyielding as a mountain.  Mountains have a way of erupting violently.

Yoga to Build Up a Depleted Muladhara

Focus on grounding postures that primarily fire up the feet, leg and thigh muscles.  Standing poses such as Warrior 1, Warrior 2 and Chair pose can reaffirm your footing on Earth and help you cultivate strength.  While in your standing poses, consider that your feet are suction cups grounding you to Earth.  They draw up energy into the legs and up to your core.  The feet and legs nourish the body like the roots of a tree. 

Yoga to Relax an Overcharged Muladhara

Stretch and lengthen the leg muscles, turning stone into malleable clay.  With toes curled under, sit back in hero pose.  Bend one knee at a time in downward-facing dog to release the calves.  Stretch the legs in standing or seated forward bends.  Reclined twists bring flexibility to the outside seam of the legs.  

Pranayama for Muladhara

Practicing deep, diaphragmatic breath can stimulate and harmonize Muladhara.  Visualize your inhalations flowing down to the base of the tailbone, fueling your root.  Follow the exhalations up to your heart center.  This imagery helps to draw awareness out of the thinking mind and into the primal intelligence of the body.  Listen closely to the messages the body reveals.  Cultivate a more holistic relationship to your whole being.