I can virtually hear the eye rolls. Yes, the term grounded has been used to the brink. But what does get grounded, or ground yourself, actually mean? It is much more than connecting with the earth, getting out of your head and dropping your centre; for me, being grounded means that I am more connected to my heart-space. It’s about being fully present, aware of your environment—seen and unseen, within and without—in each moment.
Connecting deeper with Mother Earth, firmly planting your roots as a tree does, is part of the process. However, there is another aspect to this notion—being one with your body. Our physicality is made of the earth. It is our vehicle to navigate her terrain. How can we drive this carcass if we are not connected to it? If we do not feel and acknowledge our body’s wisdom and functions, how can we harness its maximum potential?
Good question! That is the thing; we can’t. The more we feel one with our body—though we are not only physical in nature—the more our body can work with us. This requires a level of respect on our part. And sometimes, this takes a long time to achieve, especially when we have experienced a trauma or illness. Just as our interpersonal relationships require mutual respect, care, compassion (I could keep going. . .) and love, so too does our relationship with our body. And as with every relationship, it takes commitment, perseverance, and good old-fashioned work.
So, I encourage you to commit to a healthy connection with your body, as this is a “long haul” type of thing. If your body is telling you its tired, then let it rest. Shape and size, age and height are not even part of the equation. Physical acts of nurturing cultivate positive shifts within, which in turn begins to radiate out into multiple aspects of our being. The thrashing we give ourselves under the guise of “healthy habits” may never stick if not born from a positive intent. Love always comes first; the rest is a beautiful byproduct.
Suggestion: If you feel unsupported or “all up in your head”, perhaps try running your hands over your knees. This can help focus your energy downward. After a few moments, do the same down your shins and up over your calf muscles. This act will assist in the grounding process. It will also help bring your focus back to the present and stimulate your body awareness.
This article first appeared in our newsletter on Friday, March 26th, 2021.
Image by StockSnap on Pixabay.
