The Elements-Make Nature Your Ally
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There are many practices that involve and relate to the elements of the Earth. From Ayurveda to Traditional Chinese medicine, many believe the elements can help identify or balance a vibrational component of ourselves that may be out of balance. Some of the main elements include Earth, fire, water, air, metal and wood. Based on the idea that we are all connected energetic beings, and that everything in and around the Earth holds a vibrational property, adding an elemental property to your meditation or healing practice may bring an additional benefit. I am not an expert in Ayurveda or Traditional Chinese medicine, Feng Shui or any other practice that puts emphasis on these elements. But I’ve learned along my journey some of the basics of how certain properties may help us achieve balance. There are parallels in the traditions, but I’ll share some main points of these elements and what they represent:
- Earth: This element is grounding & supportive. Elements of the Earth include stones, wood, trees and essential oils. Essential oils are pressed elements of the earth including flowers, herbs, fruits. Etc. (Please note not all essential oils are created equal, be sure to note specifics on manufacturer on the uses of the brand you choose.) Earth is often related to the season of winter, a time of calm reflection, rest and repose. When using stones be sure to cleanse the stones with salt water, and you can ‘recharge’ the stones by placing in the dirt of the Earth or placing outside during a full moon.
- Wind/Air: Breath! Using our breath and breathing techniques help incorporate this element. You can also place a wind chime outside in the springtime, the season of wind or air, and allow it’s force to soothe your senses.
- Fire: A yang or masculine energy, this is the element connected to passion, transformation, radiance, warmth, energy, action, and personal power! Fire represents new growth through destruction, and when we lovingly use it in our practice we can strengthen our connection to the natural world and accelerate our own growth and transformation.
- Your ritual for today is to write down anything that is no longer serving you (think old habits, negative thought patterns holding you back). Light a candle and have a fireproof container close by. Fold the paper three times, one for body, one for mind, and one for spirit. Touch the paper to the flame and toss into the container. Watch the flames consume those blockages and turn into ash, mulching that energy to be returned to you renewed. (Never leave any flame or hot ask unattended, practice safe magic!) Once cooled you can place ashes in the soil of a new house plant or your garden to allow new growth and transformation to take place. Live your magic today and every day!
- Water: Nurtures and allows for growth. The water element brings harmony, balance, healing and cleansing and associated with the season of autumn. Water is used to cleanse our stones, in a ritual bath to cleanse or heal, or a water fountain can also be used to add this element.
