# The root chakra (Muladhara)

> The root chakra (Muladhara) in yoga tradition: where it sits, its colour (red), its themes, and the crystals traditionally linked with it.

URL: https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/chakras/root
Updated: 2026-10-30

Muladhara, meaning 'root support' in Sanskrit, is the first of the seven main chakras in modern yoga tradition. It is placed at the base of the spine, shown as red, and linked with safety, stability, belonging and having your feet on the ground.

## At a glance

|  | Root chakra |
| --- | --- |
| Sanskrit name | Muladhara ('root support') |
| Position | The base of the spine |
| Colour | Red |
| Element | Earth |
| Seed sound (bija) | LAM |
| Themes | Safety, stability, belonging and having your feet on the ground |

## Where the idea comes from

Chakras ('wheels') come from Hindu and Buddhist tantric texts, where the number and details vary. The familiar seven chakras with rainbow colours come largely from Sir John Woodroffe's 1919 book The Serpent Power and later Western writers. We share the system as tradition and a tool for reflection, not as anatomy or medicine.

## Crystals for the root chakra

Stones usually matched with Muladhara share its colour: [Red jasper](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/crystals/red-jasper), [Black tourmaline](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/crystals/black-tourmaline), [Smoky quartz](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/crystals/smoky-quartz), [Hematite](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/crystals/hematite) and [Garnet](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/crystals/garnet). Many people place one on the body during a lying-down meditation, or keep it on a desk as a reminder.

## A simple practice

Walk barefoot on grass, sit on the floor with your back straight, or hold a dark stone while you breathe slowly.

Some people chant the seed sound LAM softly for a few breaths. Ten quiet minutes is plenty.

## Colour around the home

Using red in candles, cloths or flowers is a gentle way to bring the root chakra's themes into a room. Our [candle colour guide](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/guides/candle-colour-meanings) lists traditional meanings.

## Questions

**What colour is the root chakra?**

Red.

**Where is the root chakra?**

At the base of the spine, in modern yoga tradition.

**Which crystals go with the root chakra?**

Red jasper, Black tourmaline, Smoky quartz, Hematite and Garnet.

**What element is the root chakra?**

The root chakra is linked with earth in modern chakra tradition. Each of the seven main chakras is given an element, rising from earth at the root to more subtle elements higher up. People sometimes use this in meditation, picturing the element while focusing on the chakra's position.

**What is the seed mantra for the root chakra?**

The seed (bija) mantra for the root chakra is LAM. In yoga tradition it is chanted slowly on the out-breath, feeling the sound resonate, often for a few minutes. A [singing bowl](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/how-to-use/singing-bowls) can be used alongside it to set a calm pace.

**What incense is used for the root chakra?**

Modern practice pairs the root chakra with earthy scents such as patchouli, cedar and vetiver. These pairings are modern tradition, chosen by mood and colour. Burn incense in a ventilated room on a heatproof holder. Browse our [incense](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/collections/incense) and [incense guide](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/guides/incense-types-explained).

**What is an affirmation for the root chakra?**

A traditional-style affirmation for the root chakra is "I am safe, steady and supported." Say it slowly a few times, perhaps holding a red stone or sitting quietly. Affirmations are a reflective practice, not a treatment. See [crystals for the root chakra](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/chakras/root).

## Related

- [Sacral chakra](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/chakras/sacral)
- [Solar plexus chakra](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/chakras/solar-plexus)
- [Heart chakra](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/chakras/heart)
- [Throat chakra](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/chakras/throat)
- [Third eye chakra](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/chakras/third-eye)
- [Crown chakra](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/chakras/crown)
- [All seven chakras](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/chakras)

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