Maintaining Balance in Times of Uncertainty: the five elements
Week 7 of quarantine….I think? The days are definitely starting to blend together at this point! It might feel like you are on survival mode with the uncertainty of what life will look like in the future. But when you change how you view reality, reality changes. Seeing this time as an opportunity to tune in and reconnect with ourselves in body, mind and spirit is a gift. It is hard to be stuck at home whether you are alone, or with family or roommates and I want to offer some direction and guidance for self care at the root of who we are. According to Ayurveda, our physical body is made up of the five elements of earth, water, fire, air, and space. Taking care of the five elements which are present within all of us is the basis of health, longevity, and inner peace. This is the starting point to greatness to be the best you can be so you can accomplish all you are meant to do in this lifetime. Below you will discover some simple ways to reconnect to these elements.
earth
The earth element keeps up grounded and connected.
To reconnect with and balance the earth element, walk or stand barefoot outside in the dirt or on the grass. This practice is grounding for the nervous system and resets our circadian rhythm. We are after all children of the earth and are are microcosm of the macrocosm. This is especially important for those of us who live in a larger city. The book Earthing is a great read about this practice and our vital connection to the earth if your looking for a new book to settle down with. Gardening and playing in the mud counts too!
water
The water element transports nutrients and governs our emotions.
Most of us know that we are made up of over 60% water. So staying hydrated is key. What you may not know is that the qualities of the water you ingest matter. Drinking warm or hot water can keep us better hydrated, help us have regular bowel movements, and keep us from over eating. Avoid cold or iced water whenever possible as the cold qualities can decrease the metabolism and increase anxiety. Drinking filtered and boiled water is ideal as it is easier absorbed and assimilated. For a fascinating read on the complexities of water and how it can actually scientifically carry emotion, download New York Times bestseller, The Hidden Messages in Water.
fire
The fire element manages transformation and digestion.
In Ayurveda the fire element is referred to as agni. it is important to keep the fire of our body and mind balanced so that it does not extinguish or become too aggressive. This elements digests not only our food, but also helps us process our thoughts and emotions. Support the fire element in your body with this ancient remedy to kindle agni. Do your best to turn off backlit devices after sundown so that you can calm your mind and “digest” all the experiences of the day, especially if you are watching a lot of news and working all day from home.
air
The air element represents all movement as well as the air (prana) that gives us life.
The air element is supported through prana - our vital energy source of breath. We can support this by getting fresh air (either going outside or opening windows), and with the practice of pranayama (breath control). My go-to pranayama is nadi shodhana, or alternate nostril breathing. This balances the right and left hemispheres of the brain and is especially nice for those who are just starting to cultivate a meditation practice. Get a tutorial here of how it’s done. Another great way to support prana is by eating lots of fresh fruits and veggies.
space
The space element vibrates within each cell and creates room for us to grow.
Connect to something greater than yourself and beyond the physical body. This could be accomplished through meditation, spiritual practice, mantra, or whatever practice helps you to let go of fear and connect to something greater within. The free app Insight Timer is an excellent resource if you need a place to start. When you are able to recognize and connect with the divine within, the world suddenly will open up in new wonderful ways!