Earth Element

The Earth Element symbolizes the center, balance, and groundedness. It is the axis of the elements, mandala or medicine wheel: the point where we stand looking out at the four cardinal directions. The Earth phase corresponds to the center, the middle, and the balance between Yang and Yin. Earth energy is stable, giving us a firm center and a grounding presence.

In my experience, Earth energy is ALL about grounding and centering. To ground means you are focused and clear, well-balanced, make sensible choices for yourself, and have proper personal boundaries. Get your feet on the ground!

Over the years, I have found that being in nature, grounding meditation, and physical movement have been beneficial in keeping me connected to the Earth element.

To activate grounding and centering, move your body! Yoga, tai chi, qigong, massage, foot reflexology, acupressure, and walking in nature are all very beneficial for connecting deeper with Earth. I prefer Hatha yoga, in which the movements are slower, and the poses are held longer, which allows the fascia, the connective tissue, to open up and stretch. This allows time for integrating and releasing held emotions or contractions within the bodymind, which will aid in grounding.

Envision your legs like tree trunks rooted to the Earth. Your feet and legs are your grounding cords or your “roots.” Like a plant’s root system, you also have a grounding cord to stabilize you so that whatever happens, you can remain stable in the grounded energy of the Earth.

Some of my favorite Earth element essential oils:

Benzoin (Styrax benzoin)- Nurtured change (warming, increases immunity, clears phlegm, calms the nerves and mind).

Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) - Calming restoration (moves chi, tonifies lungs and fortifies stomach and spleen, clears and calms the mind).

Coriander (Coriandrum sativum)- Joyful stability (warm and dry, increases digestion).

Marjoram (Origanum majorana) - Soothing inward comfort (warming, soothes and restores chi, clears cold phlegm, and comforts mind).

Davana (Artemisia pallens) - Sweet repose (warming, increases immunity, clears dampness, calming the nerves and mind).

Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha)- Transform into tranquil stillness (warm and drying, strengthens immunity, clears dampness, clears and calms the mind).

Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin)- Peaceful abiding (warming, increases immunity and chi SP, and uplifts mind). Vetiver (Chrysopogon zizanioides) - Steady assurance (clears heat, tonifies yin, increases immunity and digestive chi, calms nerves and the mind).

Nasal inhaler Earth Blend: Saturate the felt wick of a nasal inhaler with this blend of essential oils:

• 5 drops Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum)

• 5 drops Davana (Artemisia pallens)

• 5 drops Benzoin (Styrax benzoin)

Application: Inhale as needed to keep sinuses clear. Alternatively, for an Aroma Patch, use one to two drops of each of the essential oils and apply underneath the clavicle.