Living in chronically stressful environments can greatly impact our ability to nurture ourselves.
Even when we are no longer living under those circumstances, it may feel like a struggle to take the time to take care of ourselves because we are so busy always caring for others.
(P.S. This is a conditioned response to the past environment!)
WHAT can we do to support our mind and body? And WHEN is a good time to start?
Have you ever heard of the Late Summer season? The end of summer — when it is not quite fall yet, but there is a definite change in the air. When we are moving back into some sort of a routine after the freedom of summer. This is an excellent time to focus on taking care of yourself, to stay grounded and nourished.
EARTH ELEMENT
Late summer is associated with the Earth Element. If our Earth Element is of good quality, we will have the ability to nourish ourselves. The Earth is also about our feelings of stability.
The characteristics of the Earth Element are those of the archetype of the Mother: grounding, caring and nourishing. When our Earth energy is strong and fluid we are able to take good care of ourselves and others. It fosters clear thoughts and a capacity to create a peaceful atmosphere in both our inner and outer world.
The emotion associated with the Earth element is worry - the unending stream of thoughts about anything and everything that could go wrong.
When our Earth Element is excessive (for example, after a prolonged period of relative quietness and introspection, or after being stuck at home for too long - maybe we were sick) we become overprotective, meddlesome and overbearing.
On the other hand, if our Earth Element is deficient (which could be the result of too much planning, or being too assertive) will lead to clinging, wavering and a sense of being scattered.
We do not need to know whether there is Earth in excess in our system, or if Earth is deficient. In general we need to find stability without stagnation as an effective way to support our Earth element. This means taking into account a balance between giving and receiving.
LOVE YOURSELF, EMBRACE YOURSELF, PAMPER YOURSELF
Here are some tips for grounding and nourishing yourself during Late Summer:
Practice Yin and Restorative Yoga
Practicing loving kindness/ choosing to be kind towards yourself to enhance self-worth is equally supportive
The use of essential oils is also an effective way to support our emotions and overall well being
Myrrh essential oil is the Oil of Mother Earth. It is especially beneficial for grounding. Myrrh helps eliminate doubt and worry when you are faced with chaos and/or confusion. Apply a drop under the feet before meditation.
Vetiver essential oil is “the restorative stabilizer.” This oil reminds us to grow our roots deep down in the earth, like Vetiver grass does. Apply a drop under the feet before going to bed for a restful night’s sleep.
Take 5 minutes a day to sit still and notice your breath, or just practice one Yin Yoga pose
Spending some time journaling - Writing about the questions: “What do I need?” or “How do I nourish myself?” can help to open up the pathways of stability and bring more balance
Take a hot (foot) bath with Vetiver oil and Epsom salt (add 5 drops of oil to 1 cup of salt before putting it in the bath)
Quietly drink a cup of your favorite tea without doing anything else
Use the energy of the Late Summer to enhance your life choices and
your nourishing self-care routine!
WHAT IS THE BENEFIT?
Taking a few moments regularly to nurture your body and mind will allow you to:
be more present for your children
increase connection in your intimate relationship
be more efficient at work tasks
have creative expression during the day, thereby increasing your deep sleep patterns at night
Enjoy living in tune with the season!
OPPORTUNITY FOR GROWTH
At the change of any season, it is easy to lose our natural state of balance. Doing a seasonal repatterning during these times can give your system an extra boost of support.
If you would like to take full advantage of increasing your Earth element and opportunities for growth this season, please reach out to me here.
Namaste,
Heather
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