Summary
The first chakra, also known as the Muladhara chakra, is the root chakra located at the base of the spine. This chakra is associated with the element of earth and is the root of our physical and emotional survival. When it is in balance, we feel safe and secure.
As the foundation of the chakra system, the first chakra is responsible for our physical needs, such as food, water, shelter, and safety. Muladhara chakra is also associated with the need for emotional security, which includes feeling safe and comfortable in relationships. We can begin exploring and expanding our horizons if our basic needs are met. Our sense of belonging is established when we feel safe and secure and feel prepared to venture out into the world and take risks, knowing that we have a solid foundation to return to. In short, the first chakra is the foundation upon which we build our lives.
Mantra Tools for the First Chakra
The seed sound for the Muladhara chakra is Lam [Lahm]. By saying this seed sound out loud, you are activating the energy of the Muladhara chakra to help attain a sense of stability in your life.
The Siddha lineage uses a mantra that channels the energy of the elements themselves that rule the chakras:
Om Namah Shivaya
ॐ नमः शिवाय
Each syllable of this mantra represents an element related to each chakra. Om symbolizes the mind, Na represents earth, Ma denotes water, Shi stands for fire, Va represents air, and Ya represents the ether. This mantra is often used to cleanse and balance the chakras. It is said that when the chakras are in alignment, one can achieve goals more easily and feel more connected to the world around them.
Abundance & Fear
Our emotional and physical security is often related to our desires, such as abundance. The Lakshmi mantra is one that helps to achieve abundance:
Om Shrim Maha Lakshmiyei Namaha
ॐ श्रीं महा लक्ष्म्यै नमः
The Ganesha mantra helps to eliminate any hurdles towards abundance:
Om Lakshmi Ganapatayei Namaha
ॐ लक्ष्मी गणपतये नमः
This other Lakshmi Mantra provides energy that attracts positivity:
Om Bhakta Saubhagya Dayinyei Namaha
ॐ भक्त सौभाग्य दायिन्यै नमः
Fear is an emotion most associated with the first chakra. Fear is a natural response to danger, but it can also be triggered by things that are not actually dangerous. When we experience fear, it is important to remember that we are safe and that we can face whatever is causing our fear. This mantra helps to use our fear productively instead of letting it overwhelm us.
Shante Prashante Sarva Bhaya Upashamani Swaha
शांति प्रशांति सर्व भय उपशमनी स्वः
Once our basic needs in life are fulfilled, we can begin to explore higher chakras.