The Root Chakra
First Chakra - Muladhara
Courage
The first, or root, chakra is the energy centre at the base of our spine. It connects to our sense of groundedness as well as instincts for survival. When off-balance, it can make us feel low energy, alienated - from ourselves and others - and easily angered. When in balance it makes us feel secure stable, full of health, energy and vitality.
Location: Base of Spine
Colour: Red
Element: Earth
Mantra: “I Am”
The root chakra is linked to our feelings of survival, safety, security, grounding and also our overall life force.
Signs of an Imbalanced Root Chakra
Anxiety
Fear
Eating Disorders
Nightmares
Lower Back Pain
Sciatica
Constipation
Leg & Foot Pain
Yoga Postures to Balance the Root Chakra
Yoga postures which enable students to feel grounded, safe and firmly rooted can help balance the root chakra. Some popular options include:
Tadasana - Mountain Pose
Dandasana - Staff Pose
Malasana - Garland Pose / Yogic Squat
Utkatasana - Chair Pose
Vajrasasa - Thunderbolt Pose
Viradhadrasana II - Warrior II
Setu Bandha Sarvangasana - Bridge Pose
Herbs to Balance the Root Chakra
Herbs used to balance the root chakra are earthy, grounding plants that support a sense of stability and calm. Ashwagandha is associated with resilience and stress, while dandelion root and burdock root are valued for their deep, nourishing connection to the earth. Ginger adds warmth and vitality, helping the body feel anchored and energised. In herbal traditions, these roots are often prepared as teas, tinctures, or broths and paired with mindful practices such as meditation, breath-work, and rest. Together, they symbolise steadiness, security, and a stronger connection to the body and the present moment.
Popular options include:
Dandelion Root
Red Clover
Ashwagandha
Hibiscus
Burdock Root
Turmeric
Ginger
Crystals to Balance the Root Chakra
Crystals associated with the root chakra are gentle, grounding stones that can facilitate a sense of comfort, steadiness, and connection to the earth. Red jasper is used for its soft, steady energy, while hematite is great for encouraging balance and calm focus. Smoky quartz can help ease tension and invite a quieter feeling of peace, while black tourmaline is associated with protection and grounding. Garnet brings a warm, supportive energy, making it another lovely choice for the root chakra. Used during meditation or kept nearby throughout the day, these crystals can gently support feelings of stability, presence, and inner calm. Some you may want to try are:
Ruby
Red Jasper
Garnet
Smoky Quartz
Hematite
Black Tourmaline
Bloodstone
Essential Oils to Balance the Root Chakra
Essential oils used for the root chakra are rich, earthy, and grounding. Cedarwood, patchouli, and vetiver are commonly chosen to encourage a feeling of stability, safety, and connection to the present moment. A few drops in a diffuser, blended into a carrier oil for a calming massage, or added to a warm bath can create a soothing ritual. Their deep, woody aromas may help quiet a busy mind and support relaxation during meditation or breath-work. When used mindfully, these oils can become a gentle sensory reminder to slow down, feel supported, and reconnect with your foundation. Some you nay want to try include:
Ylang Ylang
Cedarwood
Patchouli
Frankincence
Vetiver
Spruce
Carrot Seed
When the root chakra is balanced we can feel safe, secure and confident. We are resilient and are able to trust in our own abilities to survive and in the greater power of what the universe is providing us. Finding a way to balance this first chakra provides a solid foundation for the six chakras above, it is the beginning base and I hope some of the options here will help you to find an option that resonates with you to bring yours into balance as you work through recovering from your eating disorder.