Yoga asanas for Root Chakra

Chakras are the energy centers that move through our body from the crown of the head to the base of the spine. The Root chakra, also called Muladhara, is situated at the base of the spine. This chakra is associated with the earth element and linked to the ability to be firmly rooted or grounded. So, it is called the foundation of the physical structure or energy body and the foundation needs to be strong and stable to have good health and wellbeing.

Anatomically, this chakra is located in the perineum, is closely associated with the genital area and has great implications relating to Life, childbirth and sexuality. This chakra is also closely related to organs of excretion like the large intestine, kidneys, rectum, and bladder. During Yoga practice, activating the root chakra lock helps the prana or life force to move upwards towards the crown area. However, activating locks or bandhas is not recommended without proper guidance or a teacher, so please consult a knowledgeable Yoga teacher before you practice them.

The energy of this chakra helps in being fearless and strong during challenging times. It is the survival center from where the fight and flight mode gets initiated. Aligning with this chakra will enable to flow the energy freely throughout the subtle body thereby creating a great connection to the earth and surroundings. This will help you in looking inward and creating a stronger bond with yourself.

Below are some of the Yoga Asanas that can be practiced every day to create harmony in the root chakra

Sukhasana: This posture is usually practiced during meditation, and pranayama practice. This is the comfortable seated position with legs folded in front of each other. One can close the eyes and sit for long hours meditating and connecting with self in this posture. Focus on the root chakra and try to breathe into it.

Uttanasana: Standing forward fold. Keep legs hip-width apart, inhale raise your hands up, exhale fold forward head to the shin. This is usually practiced as a resting pose in between intense practices to find some calmness in between the storm. As you surrender to the gravity while falling forward, this is a great posture to be grounded.

Virabhadrasana 2 :  This is the fierce warrior pose that helps to conquer fears and grow strong. As root chakra plays an important role in initiating the flight and fight mode, this pose helps in stimulating that mode using the body’s natural energy flow, while both feet are firmly grounded helping to dig deep into the inner self and grow strong.

Paschimotanasana:  Seated forward fold. Sit in dandasana, raise your hands up, fold forward, chest and belly to the thighs, head to the shin. This posture relaxes the back muscles and helps to be grounded.

Malasana: Standing with your feet slightly wider than the hips, toes turned outwards, begin to bend your knees, lowering your hips towards the ground. Bring your hands to the prayer position or Anjali Mudra in front of the heart. This pose will strengthen the lower back, ankles, and calf muscles and is a great hip opener.

Apart from all the above asanas, one can also meditate or do pranayama to bring a sense of calmness and peace in life. Even while practicing asanas, remember to maintain the intention of staying grounded, and with each inhale imagine you are pulling the energy from the ground and with each exhale spreading this energy all over your body.