The elements of our natural world contain wisdom and potent medicine for our souls. Learning to dance with them can help us attract and amplify their energy for support throughout our life's journey. The element of earth is connected to our physical needs for survival. It teaches us how to become deeply rooted so that we can nourish our body and soul. Earth helps us build a solid foundation and create supportive structures. Learning to move with this energy can help us to feel secure, create boundaries, and manifest the life we long to live.
Earth is a source of strength and stability. It is protective, anchoring, and steadfast. This element calls us inward to align with our inner wisdom and act from a place of integrity. It teaches us the value of consistency and dependability and the benefits of working hard toward our long-term goals and aspirations.
Earth is expressed through movement that is weighted and well-structured. Its primary goal is to condense and bring things into viable form. Someone who is moving with this energy might look like they are working in the garden - performing actions such as digging, tilling, plowing, smoothing, building, and pressing. Earth movement can appear very tactile - it longs to be in contact with something. When we move with earth energy, we will naturally feel drawn to the floor. You might even notice a desire to bring your focus to the ground beneath you, exploring the nature of that surface to develop a deeper connection.
Here are some reasons for bringing the element of earth into our bodies …
- To understand the importance of anchoring ourselves to this physical plane
- To establish a conscious connection between our bodies and the tangible world that surrounds us
- To take pleasure in the sensual nature of our physical surroundings
- To feel held, safe, nurtured
- To set up shields/wards
- To seal or bind
- To express gratitude and cultivate patience
- To build a foundation for growth and abundance - to MANIFEST
- To strengthen the physical structure of our bodies and gain awareness of it’s abilities
Movement guidelines for aligning with the attributes of earth
- Square, orderly, and repetitive shapes kept close to the body
- Movement is performed in the lower plane (on or near the floor) and prioritizes the lower body.
- Tempo is slow and steady
- Motions are compressive and concentrating with little to no travel (stable and rooted)
- Movement qualities are: controlled, instinctual, methodical, rhythmic, thorough, resourceful, practical, and protective.
Other associations and tools for dancing with earth energy
The earth element has a Yin (-) polarity meaning it displays an inward flow of energy that is lunar (or feminine) and receptive in nature. A dancer moving with this energy would have an internal focus - attracting and pulling energy toward themselves.
Earth is associated with the root chakra, compelling us to assert boundaries, protect what’s important to us, and meet our physical needs. It teaches us the value of stillness and presence. You can visualize your energy spiraling down into the earth (either from your feet or the base of your spine) to establish a strong foundation that supports all other movements.
Earth is the inspiration for the suit of discs (or pentacles) as well as the pages (or princesses) in the tarot. Some major arcana cards to help you connect to this element are The Empress, The Hierophant, The Hermit, and The World (Universe).
Earth energy can also be found in the cosmos. You can embody the qualities of Venus and the moon, as well as the constellations of Capricorn, Virgo, and Taurus.
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