Chakra Series, Part I: Root
Introduction
Last month, I visited one of my oldest friends, Camille Garcia, in Santa Barbara. Cami recently published a poetic newsletter entitled “Baby’s first chakra lesson” that I read and re-read …and re-read with enthusiasm and curiosity. During our time together we discussed the piece-- its origins, its meaning. Conversation naturally transitioned to chakras, or energy centers, in a broader sense.
**Disclaimer: my knowledge of anything related to chakras, the Chakra System, the Vedas, etc. was limited to flyby references during yoga and the all-too-common cultural bastardization of anything sacred, lol. With that, I had nothing to do but learn.
She pulled out “Eastern Body, Western Mind: Psychology and the Chakra System As a Path to the Self”. I was (and continue to be) captivated. Since then, I have had my nose deep in that borrowed book. This book was written by Anodea Judith and first published in 1996. Because of the timelessness of chakras, dating back more than four thousand years, the thoughtful synthesis she provides cover to cover rings true (and louder) today.
With that, I hope you enjoy the seven-part series. The floral arrangements will be based on a few key characteristics of each chakra with my “explanation” detailed at the end of the photos.
Eastern Body, Western Mind with our glorious rubber tree as a backdrop. I spent so much time on the porch reading this beautiful title!
Part I: Root
Root Chakra at a glance
Archetypal Element: Earth
Color: Red
Purpose: Foundation
Right: To be here
Given the purpose of the root chakra is foundation, the rectangular vase represents a wide, solid, strong base. The Oregon moss covers the base of the arrangement to capture the elemental nature of the chakra: earth. Both nicknamed as a “lily”, the stunning red of the Nerine and Alstroemeria add flare and represent the first color of the rainbow. The gorgeous Maple branches tie in the green of the moss and the red of the focal flowers. The Curly Willow entangled throughout is intended to mimic roots, while the stunning weighty piece of Driftwood on the left grounds us.
It feels appropriate that a friendship with deep roots is where this spark was ignited. Thank you, Cami. For lending me this book & for being you.
