In times of change, meditating outdoors and focusing on the elements helps us ground, find balance and get inspired.
When I am feeling low on energy or anxious, one of my favorite things to do is meditate in nature. Breathing in the fresh air, listening to the birds chirp and feeling the sun on my skin helps me recharge, find balance and gather inspiration.
We can expand our awareness of nature in meditation by focusing on the classical elements — earth, water, fire, air and aether. These elements were named by Aristotle and used in Greek philosophy to explain patterns in nature through properties of hot versus cold and dry versus wet. Symbolically, they contain energy we can embody to help feel more connected and carry us smoothly through seasonal and life transitions.
What do the elements symbolize?
Earth: contains cold and dry properties. Connecting to the earth symbolizes a sense of grounding, stability and balance.
Water: contains cold and wet properties. Water makes up over 50% of our body. Just as water is fluid and has the ability to move over obstacles with ease, we too can maneuver over obstacles and carve a new path forward.
Fire: contains hot and dry properties. It has the ability to both create and destroy. Fire represents creativity, energy and rebirth.
Air: contains cold and wet properties. When we breathe in air, we fill our muscles with oxygen. Bringing awareness to our breath helps calm our nervous system and nourish our bodies.
Aether/Space: is less connected to the earth and more spiritual in nature. We can focus on the space between our thoughts, floating above the chaos of the mind and finding a sense of serene peace.
The next time you prepare for meditation, take a comfortable seat outside and press play on the video below to incorporate each of the elements into your practice.
How do you feel after taking the time to connect to the elements? I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below. You can come back to this video any time to reconnect to nature and calm your mind.
If you enjoyed the meditation and would like to experience a session in person, you can join me and Sienna on June 22, 2023 for Harness the Elements: Celebrate the Solstice from 7-9pm at La Jolla Shores Park. We will focus on each of the elements as we breathe, flow and let go of what is no longer serving us. You can learn more and register on Eventbrite.
I am here to support you in every step of this journey. If you have any questions, send me an email using the contact form on the homepage.
With gratitude and grounding,
Shannon
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