Understanding the Root Chakra and its link to Emotional Wellbeing

Originating in the East, the chakras have been known of and studied for thousands of years – and now more and more people in the West are learning about and tapping into this ancient system to help bring balance and harmony to all areas of their life, including their physical health and emotional wellness. Although we can’t see the chakras, we can certainly feel their influence on our day to day lives.

Over the next few weeks, I’ll be introducing the chakra system here with a focus on emotional health and how paying attention to and taking care of our chakras can help us to feel our best on all levels, especially when it comes to tapping into the mind-body connection and dealing with illness and disease. (If you’re not yet familiar with the chakra system and its functions and importance, you can learn more about the chakras and how they influence health and wellbeing here.)

Today I’m starting at the bottom (which also happens to be the beginning of the chakra system) with the Root Chakra, which governs feelings of safety, security and grounding, and forms the foundation for the connection and opening of the remaining chakras.

What is the Root Chakra?

The Root Chakra, or Muladhara in Sanskrit, is the first chakra located at the base of the spine and perineal area, characterised by the colour red. The symbol for root chakra is a four-petal lotus flower, signifying enlightenment and growth.

As its name suggests, the Root Chakra is our grounding and stabilising influence. It is linked with our most basic physical and emotional needs – safety, shelter, food and water, as well as connection and community.

How is the root chakra connected to our emotions and feelings?

All chakras have certain emotions, feelings and beliefs connected to them –  the Root is particularly important because that’s where we hold most of our core and foundational characteristics which can influence our day-to-day lives and the trajectory of our experience as a whole. As we grow and develop physically and mentally, it is said that the chakra system also develops, starting at the root. During these formative years many of us experience traumas and events which shape certain beliefs and behaviours, some of which can be unhelpful. These can stay with us for a long time, especially if they evolved during our formative years.

When the Root Chakra is functioning properly and in full balance, we feel grounded and secure. Our self-esteem and confidence are intact, we feel sure when making decisions, our needs are met, our intuition is strong. But when the Root Chakra is out of sync, we feel anxious, fearful and panicky. We can lose our sense of purpose, feel uncertain and indecisive about what direction we are headed in. This can show up in our personal lives and relationships, finances and career.

So what does this mean for health? When we feel anxious, insecure and unstable we often feel overly stressed, or engage in obsessive or controlling behaviours. Elevated cortisol levels caused by chronic stress and anxiety can even affect hormone balance, weight gain and metabolism. Symptoms of an imbalanced Root Chakra and related illnesses include:

• Inflammation and pain
• Feeling sluggish and unmotivated
• Confusion and lack of direction in life
• Lower back problem
• Colon and digestive issues
• Bladder disorders
• Constipation
• Anxiety and panic attacks
• Depression
• Eating disorders

Supporting and balancing the root chakra for emotional wellbeing

If after reading this article you’ve identified a possible imbalance in your Root Chakra, there are lots of things you can do to better support your body and mind. Starting with the Root is essential, as healing at the root enables you to find space to address imbalances in the higher chakras. Some Root Chakra healing exercises to try include:

Practice grounding: Connecting with the earth through grounding can really help you to feel more stable and secure. Walk barefoot, touch the earth or even hug a tree (yes really!)

Crystal healing: Black Tourmaline, Red Jasper and Bloodstone are all grounding stones perfect for balancing the root chakra. Wear on your person or leave to sit at the base of the spine.

Eat Root Chakra-friendly foods: Grounding foods such as sweet potatoes, root vegetables like parsnips and beetroots, as well as red foods including peppers, tomatoes and pomegranate.

Essential oils: Myrrh, Frankincense, Sandalwood, Clove, Cedar and Rosemary are all wonderful for the Root Chakra.

Reiki: Reiki, a type of energy healing, can be used to bring balance through the chakra system.

Guided chakra meditations: If you head over to YouTube or Spotify, you’ll find guided meditations specifically created to help restore and replenish Root Chakra function. Meditation can also bring calm and clarity with regular practice.

Want to learn more about becoming your best self and supporting optimal health holistically? Get in touch today:

You may also wish to download a copy of my Chakra Healing Guide

Download The Chakra Healing Guide here