Muladhara Chakra - Root Chakra

The Muladhara Chakra, or the root chakra is located in the pelvic region near the base of the spine at the perineum. It is also called the pelvic plexus and is associated with the physical sheath or annamaya kosa.  Mula means root, source, base and adhara means support.  Connected to the earth element, this chakra relates to our basic survival and relates to how we see ourselves in our surroundings.
It is also associated with the color red.  Mr.Iyengar also writes in Light on Yoga, that it may be that the chakras also correspond to the endocrine glands which supply hormones to the system.  The muladhara chakra associates with the the adrenal glands.  Physically it also pertains to the skeletal system and the sense of smell.
If the root chakra becomes blocked by tension and low-self esteem it can emotionally lead to self destructive behaviour, depression or immune system disorders and phycially may result in back pain and sciatica.
Some poses that help balance the muladhara chakra are uttanasana, standing forward bend and janu sirasana, head to knee pose.  They focus on lengthening the hamstrings and strengthening the quadriceps.  Also, focusing on the soles of the feet and balance will help.  Another good pose is setu bandha sarvangasana or the bridge pose.  Focus on pressing into the feet firmly and lifting the tailbone up to strengthen the pelvic and abdominal areas, while at the same time firmly grounding yourself.  Restorative poses like supta badha konasana (supported bound angle pose) and child's posee help retore the nervous system.
The mantra associated with this chakra is LAM.  In a seated position with pointer finger and thumb touching practice chanting the sound LAM while focusing on the root chakra.

While this is just an introduction into the chakras as you explore more yourself and gain more awareness in your own body and breath I hope you will find balance, openness and happiness.

Namaste.
Pamela Nelson
www.plnyoga.vpweb.com