There are a plethora of energy systems alluded to and documented across the world and its many cultures and beliefs. While it remains largely unclear which ones formed organically and which ones were sourced from another, in the West, the most popular tradition is that of the Hindus and the seven chakras. 

‘Chakra’ is Sanskrit for ‘wheel’ and is used to describe an energy center that exists physically and spiritually within the body along the spinal cord. These vibrating disks each correspond to nerve bundles and organs in the body. 

They can exist in various states, with the ideal being balanced, where energy flows through them healthily and openly. They can also develop blocks. This is due to receiving too much (overcharged) or too little (undercharged) energy, making them unbalanced. The way energy flows through the chakra affects how a person manifests the qualities associated with it. 

The Hindu system prescribes a Sanskrit name for each energy wheel, as well as a color, element, symbol, and sound, to name a few. 

Alternative Energy Systems:

The Incans and Mayans both developed their own in South America, while in North America, the Tsalagi system was created by the Cherokee tribe. In Africa, both the Kemites (ancient Egyptians) and Zulu have documented systems that all bear similarities to each other.

Root Chakra Basics

Sanskrit Name: Muladhara (base/root)

Location: Groin/base of spine, between anus and genitals

Related Organs: Adrenals, bones, and skeletal structure, 

Element: Earth

Color: Red

Vowel Sound: O

Seed Sound: LAM

Frequency: 194.18, 256, and 396 HZ

Instinct: Survival and Security

Developmental stage: Womb to 12 months

Primary Issues: Grounding, nourishment, boundaries, finances, trust

Undercharged Characteristics: unstable home life, financial issues, not feeling safe/secure, trust issues, poor boundaries, disconnect from body, restless, fearful, poor focus and discipline. Disorganized, underweight

Overcharged: rigid boundaries, material fixation, lazy, tired, greed, overweight, addiction to security

Corresponding Physical Issues: Skeletal issues, bones, feet, knees, legs, dental issues, digestion, frequent illness. 

Balanced: grounded, safety and security, stability, prosperity, healthy, comfortable in body, ability to relax, trusts self, others and the world to provide, ability to manifest outwardly

Crystals:

Malachite

Obsidian

Smoky quartz

Red jasper

Apache tears

Onyx

Hagstone

Tourmaline

Bloodstone

carnelian

Plants:

Ashwaganda

Ginger

Dandelion Root

Cinnamon

Raspberry leaf

Turmeric

Clove

Dong quai

Tea:

Magic Hour teas

Buddha teas

Make your own!

Food: Root vegetables, potatoes, beets, raspberries, strawberries, cherries, pomegranate, tomatoes, proteins esp meats. 

Yoga Poses: 

Sukhasana

Balasana

Malasana

Bridge pose

Warrior 2

Savasana

Incense:

Sandalwood, patchouli, cloves, Cedar

Essential Oils:

Cedarwood, sandalwood, patchouli, suns eye blend, black pepper, frankincense

Candle Magic:

Art of the root, buddha grove, cinnamon, clove, sandalwood

Physical Practices:

Nature, earthing/grounding, martial arts, hatha yoga, jogging/running, physical therapies, massage, pedicures, dance

Traumas and Abuses: Abandonment, physical neglect, malnourishment, physical abuse, violence in the home, generational trauma, poverty, war

Alignment:

Zodiac most affected/connected

Taurus, Capricorn, Scorpio (sexual organs)

Tarot suit: Pentacles

Root Chakra Tarot Spread

Recommended Decks: 

Animal Spirits: Elephant, Rhino, Bull, Tiger

Deities: Durga, Lakshmi, gaia/Mother Earth, kali, Hestia

Angels: Uriel