In the past two posts, we talked about how Mother Earth and us are one and how important it is that we can start healing Mother Earth by being kind to ourselves. By reclaiming the long-lost relationship with Mother Earth, we are embarking on a journey to heal ouselves and Mother Earth at the same time.

Under Mother Earth’s guidance, we look at the natural elements that manifests themselves in our body; earth, air, water, fire & ether; and realize that in order to achieve health and embark on a true healing journey, all elements need to be in balance.  Here are some simple practices to reclaim our true self back.

1) Rest (Earth Element)

In the world where we have to strive for the best, we often forget to rest as it’s often associated with laziness or unproductiveness. The truth is, resting is the most valuable thing one can do to energize ourselves. Regardless of what the outside world says, we have to acknowledge the need of our inner world, a need for silence, self reflection and restoration. It’s a  time to just be without pleasing anyone or anything. Rest our mind and let go of the stress, fears and worries. Allow our monkey mind to calm down and relax into a sleep. There are no deadlines, no expectations . Just rest and fill up the internal well because we need it to bring about a bigger change along our journey. By allowing our earth body to be in its element, we are conserving the energy required to put all life elements together.

2) Deep Breath (Wind Element)

As we breathe in, we are exchanging our breath with that of our plant kin. The air, as a byproduct of photosynthesis, carries with it the healing elements from the leaves in the form of smell. As we let the air flow internally and touch the very core of our own self, we feel the subtle natural aroma of the bark, leaves, flowers and plants creating a positive effect on our mood, mind and emotions. Be aware of the air that flows in and out of us. Feel the whole sensation and notice how our lungs shrink or expand. Try meditation or different breathing exercises a few minutes a day everyday and we’ll be surprised at how much more we feel calm yet alive. By activating the wind inside of us, we are igniting the internal fire element and our willingness to live as well. 

3) Drink enough clean water (Water Element)

Photo Credit: XL Catlin from Seaview Survey

Water covers 70% of our planet and 70% of our body consists of water. Similarly to how the river flows through the land, enriching lives with its mineral contents while flushing out unwanted waste, in our body, water element helps transport nutrients, lubricate different organs and play a vital role in our detoxification process. The fluid nature of water is both nourishing and cleansing for both us and Mother Earth. 
We can’t stress the important of drinking water enough as it does not only quench our thirst but also support our body function and make sure that things flow and move the way it is supposed to.  Water makes us feel more relaxed, flexible and attuned to the flow of life. We become in tune with our beings; physically, mentally and spiritually and ready for any changes to come.

4)Get moving! (Fire element)

Blood circulation is key in igniting/invigorating the  fire element. When you move, you raise your body temperature and stimulate the blood flow through your heart and all other organs. At the end of a physical exertion, you will feel the fire element moving throughout your body. You can feel the sweat running down your skin, the heart pumping, heart rising, and, sometimes, muscles aching. All living signs become more pronounced than before as you become more present with your being. You could start by something simple like walking, doing housework, or bet a little bit more serious like joining sports. Choose something that you already enjoy and do it regularly so it becomes a routine. Let your passion be the light that activates the fire on your body.

5) Spend time in nature. (Ether element)

Credit: Unknown

As we tend to our inner self, we can also tap into the wisdom of the outside world. Whether it be gardening, playing in a sandbox, caring for a pet or napping on a green pasture land, being in direct contact with Mother Earth allows us to engage with the source of life. As we spend more time in nature, our stress level drops, we become more creative, and serotonin, the happy hormone, is secreted more. We become kinder to ourselves and the world around us. Our hearts soften. Our manners become gentler and our minds more grounded. With curiosity, we can draw lessons from the little details. Leaves changing colors remind us of seasonal rhythms,  dry grassland springing up to life after a rain show different cycles of life, or fights between animals to protect their territory, teach us about boundaries and living in harmony with each other. As we draw lessons from small observations in nature, we start to realize what is truly important to us, what our happiness truly means and how to live in harmony with Mother Nature and other beings surrounding us. 

As we strive to make this planet a better place, let’s be kind to ourselves, to others and to Mother Earth. In the same way Mother Earth allows all sorts of seeds to grow without judging, but gives them  time to show themselves to their fullest.

When we heal, so will Mother Earth.