Chakras
This week we started learning about chakras or energy centers. The subtle system has seven main chakras that are placed in the spinal cord. On the physical level chakras correspond to neural plexuses such as the solar plexus (Nabhi chakra or 3rd energy center) or the optic chasma (the Agnya chakra or 6th energy center). On a more subtle level chakras represent qualities such as peace and satisfaction (Nabhi) or forgiveness (Agnya). The following diagram shows the corresponding neural plexus and the basic qualities of each chakra:
Mooladhara Chakra
The Mooladhara chakra, the topic of this week’s session, is the first chakra and is the only center placed underneath the Kundalini. ‘Mool’ means root and ‘adhara’ means support – so this chakra is the support of the roots of the subtle system and the Kundalini. This means a strong Mooladhara chakra is essential for the Kundalini rise strongly and to sustain the meditative experience.
The qualities of the Mooladhara chakra are innocence and wisdom. Therefore these qualities are foundational to our spiritual ascent.
In the chart below you can see how the Mooladhara chakra corresponds to locations in the body, colours, planets, elements and so on.
Shri Ganesha
The guardian or deity of the Mooladhara chakra, who represents its qualities in their purest form, is Shri Ganesha. Shri Ganesha is depicted as an eternal child (symbolising innocence) with an elephants head (symbolising wisdom and egolessness). His vehicle is a mouse representing humility.
If you were not able to join the live session or wish to view it again, you can see the recording here:
Using the Earth Element
To strengthen the Mooladhara chakra all treatments we have mentioned so far will be useful: Meditation, foot soak and balancing.
As the Mooladhara chakra is made of the earth, this element can also help cleanse the chakra. The salt that we put in the foot soak represents the earth element, so this will help. You can also sit on the earth, on a lawn or a meadow, and respectfully put both hands on the earth. Request Mother Earth to absorb any excess heat in the subtle system and to cleanse the Mooladhara Chakra. Feel how any tension we may have flows through the hands into the earth and how the Mooladhara connects with the Mother Earth. After a few minutes bring the hands back to your lap with the palm upwards and slowly bring your attention up to the crown of your head. Meditate for some time and see how you feel.
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