Located at the perineum or base of the spine, the Root Chakra is associated with physical stability, security, self-sufficiency and responsibility for self. This chakra is largely responsible for how safe and secure we feel.

When the root chakra is blocked or out of balance, we can experience an inability to trust nature and the natural cycles of life. When this happens, we begin to function out of fear and feel unsafe. We find ourselves feeling ungrounded, insecure and disconnected.

Connecting with the root chakra helps us to feel secure in the “physical plane.” We feel safe and profoundly connected to nature. It grounds us and helps us to trust in the natural laws, enabling us to move with the ebb and flow of life and connect with our family and community in healthy ways. We develop a mindset of understanding that we will always be provided for and can manifest our basic needs. Incorporate the following techniques into your self-care routine to foster a deeper connection with your root chakra.

CONNECT WITH THE EARTH

Get outside and commune with the earth. Head out to the forest or a local park. Soak in the healing energy of nature. Earth is the energy of the material world. It’s energy that you can touch and feel. Earth is stable, practical and patient. It is associated with hard work, building, creating material things and connection to the material world and structures. The earth element is sensual, has creative qualities and is connected with the natural cycles of nature, as well as the human cycle of birth, life and transformation.

CONNECT WITH CRYSTALS

Allow yourself to feel the energetic properties of crystals. Hold them while meditating or sleep with them placed under your pillow. Infuse crystals with intention and place them around your house. Ruby, garnet, black tourmaline, bloodstone, hematite, obsidian, onyx, red jasper, lodestone, smoky quartz and fire agate are all associated with the Root Chakra.

ABUNDANCE PLANNING

Taking care of your financial health is an essential aspect of your overall wellness practice. Take a closer look at how you’re spending, saving and making money. Make yourself a practical plan with steps you can start taking today to call in more financial abundance.

BUILD STRENGTH

Give yourself an opportunity to be amazed at your own physical strength. Challenge yourself to try a new strength-building exercise that will allow you to reach new heights at physical fitness. Rock climbing, martial arts and weight lifting are just three possible ideas.

NOURISH YOUR TEMPLE

Tap into your intuition for guidance on what would be most nourishing to your physical body. Prioritize taking care of your body so you can show up with more presence for your highest calling. Eat nutritious, balanced meals with lots of fruits and vegetables.

INCORPORATE THE COLOR RED

Red represents power, energy, vitality, dominance, action, assertion, creation, survival and passion. This color is closely associated with the root chakra. Incorporate more of it into your day – whether it’s through your clothing and accessories, your décor or the foods you eat.

JOURNAL

Make a list of things you can do this week that will support you with basic needs. Gradually make these things a habit.

REST

Sleep is an essential part of maintaining your health and energy. Take time to make your bedroom an oasis, and create an evening ritual that allows you to be fully decompressed and ready for a restful sleep.

LOOK TO THE ELEPHANT

Elephants are associated with the root chakra. Elephants represent many things. They’re symbols of good luck, fortune and prosperity. They are also powerful beings that use their mighty strength to remove obstacles and negative forces. Elephants represent wisdom, long life, memory and vitality.