The root chakra is associated with our feelings of safety and security; this includes your basic needs such as food, water, and shelter, as well as your emotional needs. It governs the functioning of the lower part of the body, including the bladder, kidneys, lower spine and back. When the root chakra is balanced, you feel present in the here and now, connected to the physical body, grounded, stable and secure. Psychologically, it governs confidence and survival instincts, like “fight or flight” vs. “rest and repair.” Additional physical and psychological signs can include: feelings of insecurity, aggressiveness, anger, restlessness, and eating disorders.
Color: Red
Affirmation: I affirm my right to the life I know I want.
Yoga Pose: Mountain, Warrior, Child’s Pose
Bija: LAM
Activity: Grounding exercises, such as Earthing
Aromatherapy: Cedarwood, Sandalwood
Crystals: Shungite, Tiger’s Eye, Black Tourmaline, Red Jasper
The sacral chakra is the center of emotions and feelings, and it stimulates pleasure. It plays an active role in our sexuality and expression of our needs and desires. When balanced, feelings flow easily and are expressed without being overly emotional. You are open to intimacy, passion and are lively. It is associated primarily with emotional responses and regulation and is often referred to as the seat of emotions. It is also associated with the sense of taste and with reproductive function: ovaries, testes, sex organs, uterus, and prostate. Physical problems include: endometriosis, sciatica, and infertility. Abundant creativity and strongly felt intuition are two facets of an open sacral chakra.
Color: Orange
Affirmation: I allow pleasure and goodness into my life.
Yoga Pose: Goddess Pose, Low Lunge, Pigeon Pose
Bija: YAM
Activity: Do something creative that excites you
Aromatherapy: Rose, Sweet Orange
Crystals: Orange Calcite, Sunstone, Carnelian, Citrine
The solar plexus chakra is about fire energy, personal power and bravery. It’s where you find your life’s purpose rather than just existing. It is one of the most commonly blocked chakras and can be the cause of many complaints. When balanced one feels in control, has good self-esteem, confidence, sets healthy boundaries, and is at peace. It is associated with the pancreas, stomach, liver, gallbladder, small intestine, and muscles. Physical problems when unbalanced include indigestion, ulcers, hepatitis, gallstones, pancreatitis, and diabetes. Symptoms of excessive energy in the solar plexus chakra include: controlling, intolerant, or excessively competitive behavior; overeating and overindulgence; and fatigue or excessive laziness.
Color: Yellow
Affirmation: I am confident life will support me through all its changes.
Yoga Pose: Chair, Warrior II, Downward Dog
Bija: RAM
Activity: Go for a walk outside and enjoy the sun
Aromatherapy: Lemongrass, Lavender
Crystals: Amber, Yellow Calcite, Yellow Jasper, Topaz