Earth & the Elements
"Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better"— Albert Einstein
Happy Earth Day!
When I see a picture of the earth like the one above, I am in awe of the magnitude of the universe that we are part of. We inhabit a beautiful, awesome and amazing place don’t we?!
As an Expressive Arts Therapist & Facilitator, I often like to incorporate nature into my sessions. One of the ways of doing this is to explore the 4 elements (earth, water, air & fire) and reflect on how these elements define, or express themselves, in you.
For today’s purposes, and because it is Earth Day, let’s explore the element of earth a little bit further. Earth is an element that is commonly associated with stability and balance. It is often linked to qualities of practicality and the tangible. For me personally, I associate the earth with the ground, and with the quality of being grounded.
Grounding activities are a big part of what I do as both an Expressive Arts Therapist and a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor. And, they are important exercises for us all to cultivate in in our busy, overwhelming and often stressful lives.
What Does It Mean To Be Grounded?
Inhabiting the quality of being grounded means being aware of your mind & body in the present moment. It falls within the larger umbrella of mindfulness. To be grounded means we can notice and ask ourselves: how does my body feel right now? where am I located in space at this moment? how can I use my five senses to gather information about the here & now? what do I see, hear, feel, touch & taste?
Learn to incorporate RAIN
One of my favourite Mindfulness & Psychology teachers is Tara Brach, who has a system of mindfulness that is certainly thematic. She calls it RAIN and it is powerful practice that gives you tools & guidance on how to (R)ecognize your experience, (A)llow it to be as it is, (I)nvestigate it with curiosity, and (N)urture it with self-compassion.
You can find free talks & mindfulness practices with Brach on Insight Timer. I would highly recommend that you check it out: https://insighttimer.com/
Dance like the Wind
And now, just for fun, because I feel like it…. perhaps you can celebrate Earth Day by channeling Patrick Swayze and dance like the wind?! I think you can.
Discover the Elements Within You
Join me for a 90-minute discover expressive arts workshop where Earth, Water, Air, and Fire come alive as mirrors of your inner world. Through creativity and self-reflection, you'll explore how these elements shape your life, personality, and path to balance and growth.
🌍 Ground yourself in the stability of Earth
🌊 Flow with the emotions of Water
💃 Dance like the Wind
🔥 Ignite your passion with the energy of Fire
Spaces are limited, so don’t miss this opportunity to reconnect with nature and yourself in a meaningful way. Register now and step into the elements of your soul: https://www.eventbrite.ca/o/firepot-expressive-arts-73921482403
