Root to life yoga is a welcoming yoga class for everyone, regardless of experience or level. The calming, slow-paced practice encourages students to deeply feel their body and breath as they build steadiness and ease in foundational postures.

In a world of ever-increasing stress, the ability to ground your mind and body helps create an environment for you to thrive both on and off the mat. Practicing yoga can help you to cultivate a deep connection to the earth, your community and yourself.

The root chakra is the first energy center located at the base of your spine. This is where your sensitivity and instincts stem from. Aligning the root chakra can help you to establish a sense of grounding and stability in your physical, emotional and spiritual lives.

Working with your chakras is about balance – stimulating and releasing energy from your Muladhara will allow you to grow and transform. To open and align your root chakra, try these yoga poses that work on both the stimulating and releasing aspects of this powerful energy center.

Having an active root chakra will lead to an increased attachment to nature and the earth around you. You’ll begin to feel like you’re a part of something bigger and more expansive than yourself, which can give you a sense of peace and security.

In 2010, Michelle Chua started Root 2 Rise Yoga with a mission to connect with soulful community and nature, integrating the 8 Limbs of Yoga and mindfulness both on and off the mat. Her international yoga retreats, workshops and classes aim to empower inner and outer peace, vitality and harmony.