EARTH
This card may potentially be a reminder that we need to get real with ourselves about a current situation we are facing, and to take grounded action to move forward. Groundedness acknowledges material life, not as a limitation, but as essential information for manifesting in the real world. Grounding is about anchoring your energy. It gives you strength and stability from within, reminding you that no matter how chaotic or uncertain life may feel, you have the ability to find your center, feel supported, and navigate with grace and ease. Embrace a grounding practice as a powerful tool for finding balance and a deep sense of rootedness in the here and now. Practice: Find a standing position. Feel the connection of the soles of your feet with the floor (even better if you can go barefoot outside). Take a few deep breaths and imagine roots growing from the bottom of your feet into the earth below. Feel the support of the ground beneath you. Imagine your roots as alive and porous, taking in vital nutrients from the Earth. Feel the Earth's energy flowing up through your roots and into your body. Take a moment to notice any sensations in your body, and bring your attention to the base of your spine. Feel the energy of the Earth drawing up through your roots and up into your spine. Notice the texture and sensation of this energy. Breathe deeply. You are rooted like a beautiful tree. Tap into the natural pleasure of being part of the Earth. As you continue to breathe deeply, visualize the energy of the Earth rising up through your legs and spine, up to your crown, and filling you with a sense of calm and stability. Allow yourself to be present in this moment, and feel the support of the earth beneath you. Spending time in Nature is the ultimate antidote to a modern high tech lifestyle. No matter where you live, you can go outside and connect with life. We must always remember that we are not separate from the natural world, we are intrinsically part of it. When we tap into the energies of Nature, and spend time outside, we can find deep healing, restoration, and inspiration. Whether we sit in the cool shade of a tree or take in the soothing sounds of a river or songbirds, Nature has a way of helping us remember our true essence and find peace. This card is asking you to spend more time in nature, to cultivate a deeper relationship with the Earth and all its inhabitants. Spending time in the natural world slows us down. When you slow down and observe Life, there is always wisdom to be gained, as the intelligence of Nature far exceeds the human mind. This card is also a reminder to be mindful of your impact on the environment. Ultimately, the Nature card invites us to align with the natural rhythms of life, spend time outside, observing and connecting with something bigger than yourself. Practice: Naturally, this practice is simple. Go outside and be in Nature. Nature is the ultimate healer. Allow your senses to be filled with the sounds, sights, smells, and feels of the outdoors. Sense the aliveness and consciousness that permeates everything, and know that you belong here. Quiet your mind and let nature speak to you. Observe the myriad of connections and communications happening all around you. If you observe carefully enough, you will always learn something that can be applied to your life. If you have access to a forested area, make a plan to go there and simply bathe in the sounds and smells of the forest. It is incredible how balancing the sound of birds and rustling leaves in the wind can be for the nervous system. Observe the dance of the elements in your surroundings, and within your own body. Can you feel how interconnected it all is? Practice: Find a cozy and quiet space where you won't be disturbed. Begin by taking a few deep breaths, allowing your body and mind to relax into the present moment. Now, think of one way you can practice self-care today. It could be taking a nap, preparing a healthy meal, going for a walk in nature, taking a relaxing bath, or any other activity that nourishes your body, mind, and soul. Commit to taking action on your self-care activity today, and visualize yourself engaging in that activity with joy and ease. Imagine yourself feeling relaxed, energized, and happy as you practice self-care. As you go about your day, take notice of any opportunities to practice self-care. Remember that self-care doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming - it can be as simple as taking a few deep breaths, drinking a glass of water, or taking a five-minute break to stretch your body. When you're ready to move on, take a final deep breath and acknowledge yourself for prioritizing your self-care. Carry this sense of self-love and well-being with you as you go about your day.
To be grounded is to be fully present in the moment, connected with the Earth and physical reality. Anxiety, stress, and disassociation from our body are all symptoms of being ungrounded. The Grounding card is a reminder to find ways anchor your awareness in the here and now. It is a call to come back into your body, especially your feet and legs. It's time to reconnect with the Earth, Mama Gaia.
Self Care is essential for a happy healthy life. The basics include getting enough rest, nourishing yourself with healthy food, and engaging in activities that bring joy and fun into your life. If your level of self care is not ideal, it might be a good idea to examine some of your beliefs, conscious or unconscious, around self care. Many of us have taken on beliefs from our family or society that judge self care as selfish or indulgent. However, nothing could be further from the truth. In order to be of service to others we must fill our cups first. Healthy boundaries are also an important aspect of self care. Sometimes self care means saying no to obligations or people who drain your energy. The Self Care card encourages you to show up for yourself first, so you can give from a sense of overflow.
