Chakra 1 of 7
The root chakra (Muladhara)
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, Black tourmaline, Smoky quartz, Hematite and 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 lists traditional meanings.
Stones for the root chakra
Questions answered
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.
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