The root chakra connects and grounds us within our physical body as we learn to trust and feel safe. The archetype of the root chakra is the serpent or ouroboros that sheds its skin in order to renew itself.  It releases what is no longer needed in order to receive what is needed. This process is mirrored in our primal need to eliminate physically and emotionally. This process of elimination and regeneration has linked serpents with rebirth, transformation, immortality and healing.

The serpent represents the reptilian brain, which controls our most basic functions such as heart rate, body temperature, breathing and balance. If we don’t feel safe on a physical level our body will automatically react or contract.

This reptilian response to our physical surroundings can cause us to emotionally and physically shut down and hold. Serpent reminds us to honor our surroundings as we assess the situation. It also reminds us to release and breath so we don’t feel “stuck” holding onto something we don’t need.

The Ouroboros is an ancient symbol of a serpent swallowing its tail, creating a circular and infinite world.  Carl Jung saw the Ouroboros as the archetype of alchemy and transformation. The Yogic concept of Kundalini is seen as a serpent coiled around the base of the spine. Serpents are also a symbol of healing and medicine. Asclepius, the Greek god of medicine, is depicted holding a staff with a single serpent coiled around a knotty tree limb. In myth Asclepius was the son of Apollo, god of light and healing. The Rod of Asclepius is used as a symbol of healthcare throughout the world. The Caduceus features two serpents intertwined around a central rod (spinal column). Its origins date back to Ningishzida, the Sumerian “lord of the good tree,” 6000 years ago. The Caduceus is also associated with the Greco-Roman messenger gods Hermes and Mercury.

The archetype of the serpent encourages us to release what we are holding in order to move forward. To do this, we must honor the lessons of what we left behind. This awareness will help us on our journey of healing and reconnection.

Message: Just as the serpent sheds its skin, we are being encouraged to shed any limiting beliefs, bad habits or clutter in our life. This will allow us to move forward and receive new insights and wisdom. Practice feeling safe in our own skin as we move through life with more trust and wisdom.

“We must let go of the life we have planned, so as to accept the one that is waiting for us.” – Joseph Campbell 

If you liked what you read and want more... you may be interested in having the actual guidebook and card deck. The 134 page full-color book is sold separately from the cards. My goal is to find a publisher who can offer this as a set. In the meantime, you can purchase either the book or cards via these links. Thank you for your support. Laural

Mandala Chakra book available at: Amazon

Mandala Chakra card deck available at: Printers Studio

For more information visit: lauralwauters.com