Earth: Reclaim Your Connection to Gaia thru Ritual & Reverence
The natural environment is not only our home, but the foundation of our physical structure. Connection to nature has traditionally encompassed a physical relationship and rested on the assumption of spiritual connection. As the western world developed, belief of a spiritual connection with nature began to lose favor in lieu of a new mechanistic worldview. The scientific revolution, at the forefront of this change, contended that the natural world was something that could be quantifiably measured and dominated. However, as scientific understanding of the phenomenal world evolves, science itself may exemplify the value of ancient teachings. This article explores the history of our relationship with nature and how the natural world is in fact deeply connected to our body and being. It concludes with a ritual of the senses, designed to take you deep into the intelligence of nature and in so doing, deep into the wisdom of Self.
Of the Earth
We often search for magic, for esoteric gateways into deepened consciousness, yet, right here in this moment you are an expression of a profound intelligence. Take a moment to scan and feel into your body; notice your skin, your bones, and the heart that beats in your chest. Every aspect of your physical and molecular structure is born from the earth; the cosmic play of the universe itself. Our bodies are no less a part of this planet then the trees, the mountains, or any creature we find. Yet, to see ourselves as intimately woven into fabric of this planet eludes us and we often find ourselves feeling a deep sense of separation instead.
Our material connection to the earth is undeniable. Our bodies are made from the food we eat and will someday return to the earth to be transformed into nourishment for other forms of life. The molecular structure of all living creatures can be traced back to cosmic occurrences, such as the carbon that was created in the stars. What has been contended, in recent history, is our spiritual connection to this planet and the natural world. However, as our understanding of nature evolves, so too does the evidence of our vast interconnectedness.
What the Ancients Believed
In ancient times, there was a great sense of spiritual connection with the natural world. Animism, a belief that objects, places, and creatures all possess a distinct spiritual essence, was prevalent in these times, dating all the way back into the Palaeolithic era. This way of being was so fundamental to ancient cultures that it had no name, it simply was. Within the animistic framework ones actions were seen as having direct impact on the spirits of the natural environment. This created reverence for the natural world and all her creatures.
The notion of a great natural spirit or intelligence can also be found at the beginning of western civilization as we know it. In Plato’s “Timaeus” he spoke of the animus mundior “world’s soul;” a cosmic intelligence that supported the unfolding of reality. In Greek mythology, Gaia, or mother earth, was a great goddess. She was worshipped as the universal mother, gave birth to the first Gods and humans, and was the intelligence behind earth’s architecture of mountains, rivers, and trees.
Working in harmony with nature is still prevalent in many eastern and aboriginal practices today. Taoism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and aboriginal traditions believe nature is to be revered as a wise and great teacher. The Taoist, for example, believe that the only way to discover original source is to observe nature. It is through peak experiences in nature that the depth of our being meets the depth of universal source. Ancient animistic practices are also alive in many of these traditions. Balinese Hinduism offers several examples where practitioners pay reverence to the spirits of the land through their many temples and rituals. Animistic properties are also deeply embedded into the beliefs of Shamanism. Shamans regularly call upon the spirits of the earth and plants to support in spiritual healing and higher wisdom.
A Shift to Mechanistic Thinking: Separation from Animus Mundi
Unlike eastern traditions, the western world pulled away from the ancients ideas of animus mundi, animism, and harmonious communion with nature. As Christianity vaulted over Paganism many of the environmental beliefs and practices were lost. This shift in religious practice, along with the scientific revolution, had a huge impact on human’s relationship to the natural environment. Some even believe that this was the beginning of today’s environmental crises.
The scientific revolution of the 15th and 16th centuries shifted the western worldview from one of spiritual unification to a mechanistic philosophy. Philosopher Thomas Hobbes, at the forefront of mechanistic thinking, attempted to show that everything about humanity could be explained materialistically; with no connection to a soul of higher intelligence. Descartes, a well ascribed philosopher of the time, disagreed with Hobbes’ idea that the mind could be ascribed mechanistically and argued that reality was composed of two radically different types of substance; extended matter, which was mechanistic in nature, and immaterial mind, which was not mechanistic. He is famous for saying “I think therefore I am”. Intelligence came to be seen as a higher level of existence, separate from the mechanistic natural world and existing only in human beings and the detached theoretical God of deism. Isaac Newton’s scientific revelations further validated the mechanistic qualities of nature. He seemingly proved that the natural world could be described through quantification, reductionism, and systematic experimentation. However, the assumption that matter was inert, foundational to Newton’s work, would later be disproven.
Human’s relationship with nature was deeply altered by the mechanistic worldview. This new hierarchy, putting humans above nature, made the natural world something to be dominated. Utilitarian theories gained momentum and nature became a means to an ends; it’s value was only in it’s usability for future human advancement. The spiritual and material world were now seen as separate entities by the majority and thus, humanity found itself isolated from the natural world.
Integration: From Ancient Wisdom to Scientific Evolution
The scientific revolution catapulted our knowledge of the universe into new territory. The ideas of Descartes’ mind-body separation, mechanistic philosophy, and even the assumptions of “matter” have now been dismantled. Matter, broken down into quantum form is energy and space. In essence, there is no “matter” at all. Biology and psychology have shown that the body and mind are unequivocally linked; the body affects the mind and the mind affects the body. For example, thoughts impact neurotransmitters which in turn affect body function, feeling states, hormone secretion, and the stress response. The body also affects the mind, as demonstrated by social psychologist Amy Cuddy. She proved that the way we hold our bodies can significantly affect our capacity and confidence in the world.
As science progressed many scientists became inspired by ancient teachings. Today, we find that several scientific theories correlate with ancient spiritual beliefs. For example, Erin Schrödinger, the co-inventor of quantum theory, obtained his inspiration for his theory from the Vedas, ancient Indian texts. Quantum particles demonstrate a form of existence that was once thought impossible; attributes it shares with Brahman, the Vedic term for God. Quantum particles show up as both a particle and wave simultaneously and, as demonstrated in Bell’s theorem, will exhibit correlated properties even at distances of billions of miles. Brahman, as described by the Upanishads (Vedic texts), is both far and near; moving and unmoving; within this and outside of this. Many theorize that the Vedic concept of Brahman is exemplified in the Quantum field.
Earth Connection
It has also been scientifically proven that connecting with the natural environment has positive effects on the mental, physiological, and spiritual aspects of an individual. Communion with nature is equally effective for regulating body rhythms and physical vitality as is exercise and healthy eating. Mental health is positively impacted by the natural environment and “green spaces” have been shown to promote social cohesion, group-based activities, and increased individual well-being. Shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, is a practice of connecting to the forest through all the senses. As one breathes the forest air they inhale terpenes, bioactive substances released by the plants and trees. These terpenes have anti-inflammatory, immune boosting, and cortisol lowering properties which support the vitality of the individual.
As we respond to the natural environment, so too does the environment respond to us. Science has shown that plants react to the sensorial world, from touch to sound. A recording of a caterpillar chewing leaves will cause the plant to shift into defence mode and produce chemical substances to deter the caterpillar from eating it’s leaves. Plants are also sensitive to the type of the touch they receive and can communicate with each other via a subterranean ‘internet’ of fungus. The plant world is in a sense ‘conscious’ to it’s environment, though this consciousness may present differently then our own.
The Gaia hypothesis, formulated by chemist James Lovelock, proposes that living organisms interact with the inorganic surroundings on Earth to create a synergistic, self regulating, and complex system that assists in the perpetuation of life on this planet. The Gaia hypothesis, though controversial, brings necessary attention to the synergistic and holistic properties of the planet. The planet itself works as a living organism with each system and subsystem connected through a complex array of relationships. From the oceanic algae that feeds the rainclouds to the earthworms regenerating the soil for new growth, the earth is endowed with an intelligence that inevitably restores balance and harmony, at least when it is left to its own unfolding.
Ritual: Convening with the Earth
The natural environment is deeply connected to humans and having a harmonious relationship with nature has huge benefits to our bodies, spirits, and minds. Below is a ritual to commune with the earth. This practice is based on our senses and opens our physiology to the medicine of the earth. Each aspect of the ritual may also be used independently to connect with the natural environment in your daily life.
Preparation
- Choose a safe outdoor location in which you will be able to walk or hike into a secluded spot within nature. If possible, choose a location rich with plant life and a thriving ecosystem.
- Pack water, snacks if needed, a towel for washing, and any necessary safety gear (i.e. bear spray, first aid kit, phone).
- Find a friend to join you on your journey. They will ensure a higher level of safety and provide an opportunity to observe another human as part fo the natural world.
To Begin
- At the beginning of your hike take a moment to set your intentions. You may choose to recite a prayer or invocation. “Mother Hear Us,” by Sundari Studios is an option for an invocation to the divine mother
- Become silent. Take a deep breath and imagine the energy and wisdom of the environment entering your entire system
- Begin your hike when you feel present to the environment
- Remain silent as you walk and open all of your senses to your surroundings; smell and taste the air, revel in the colours and shapes, listen to the sounds of the trees, and feel your skin penetrated by the natural world
- Take a comfortable seat when you have reached your destination within nature.
- Become aware of your breath, imagining that with each inhale and exhale you are becoming more and more linked to the natural world
- Soften your eyes, as though you are looking out from the backs of your eyes. Allow your gaze to organically follow the lines of the plants and the earth
- After centring for 15 or more minutes, begin to engage with the natural world around you
- Press your hands into the dirt, scan your fingers across the rocks, the soil, and the trees. Become attuned to each element as though it is touching you, and you are soaking it through your skin
- You may choose to take off your shoes and socks and rub the earth onto your skin and walk barefoot along the ground
- Witness the beauty and sensorial connection to the natural world
- Witness the beauty of your friend in this natural world, seeing them as much a part of the earth as the trees and the soil
- When you feel complete in your exploration, take a moment to give gratitude and blessings to the environment. Thank her for allowing you to explore
- Begin the walk back and remain in silent observation
- Notice how you feel over the coming days. Journal about your experiences to remind yourself of the impact the earth has on your well-being
Conclusion
The earth is the foundation of our existence, from our physiology, to the playground of our human experience. Science has come to prove just how connected we are to the natural environment, and ancient wisdom provides guidance on how we may reclaim our connection to Gaia. We now know, both scientifically and spiritually, that nature is a healing and deeply intelligent force. Our communion with nature not only serves our higher good, but, perhaps, also teaches us how we can establish synergistic and harmonious relationships with ourselves, each other, and the natural world.
About the Author
How to Balance Your Solar Plexus Chakra
The Solar Plexus chakra or Manipura chakra is often referred to as the chakra of personal power. Located two inches above the navel at the base of the rib cage, it is the seat of our ego and where we draw motivation to achieve our goals. It governs our ability to achieve the goals we set for ourselves, moderates our self-esteem, it oversees our raw emotions and we draw on it for our self-discipline.
Call on Your Solar Plexus Chakra to Understand Your Emotional Self
When our Solar Plexus is unbalanced we experience both physical and emotional problems. Because this chakra is located near the abdomen, it affects many internal organs such as the kidneys, intestines and pancreas. Stomach ulcers and possible weight problems can also be attributed to an unbalanced Solar Plexus. In addition, we may suffer from back problems, lethargy and because this chakra is connected to our sense of sight, we may experience blurriness with our vision.
Note that physical ailments have a dramatic effect on our emotional and spiritual state and that if we pay attention to these energies within our bodies, we could, in earnest, take control of illnesses we feel are wreaking havoc on our bodies.
If it is under-active, it can lead to emotional problems, sometimes seriously. We may feel powerless or ineffective which can lead to negative thoughts and despair, we will doubt ourselves and our accomplishments and see mistrust within our friends and family. Anxiety and low self-esteem often accompany an under-active Solar Plexus and if we let these emotions fester, it can and will affect our other chakras, and by extension, our physical and emotional states.
Yet a Solar Plexus that is overactive can be just as harmful. Too much of a good thing, no matter how healthy or helpful it is, never good for us. If we find ourselves judging people too harshly or have become too critical or demanding, then our Solar Plexus could be over-stimulating our system. Anger and aggressiveness is another symptom of this overactive chakra. Anger is one of the more serious effects as it has a noted physical reaction. When we are angry the body re-directs blood away from the abdomen area and to the muscles in preparation for a physical confrontation, therefore, starving the organs of the Solar Plexus of nutrients.
How Anger Affects the Body
When the energy of our Solar Plexus is balanced, our outlook on life improves, criticisms and problems are easier to handle, and you have control over your emotions and your thoughts. The ego is easier to handle. You will understand and accept your inner peace and radiate that acceptance outward, coming to appreciate people and things around you. When balanced, our Solar Plexus gives us confidence in ourselves and our performance. We feel accomplished and proud of our work and achieving our goals. We create an emotional focal point.
The Solar Plexus Chakra is connected to the sense of sight. It is thought that nearsighted people may an over-abundance of fear or insecurity, while those who are far-sighted hold unresolved anger or guilt. We can draw on our personal power to help stimulate the chakra. Exercising our self-discipline not only brings us closer to our goals, but strengthens our chakra and allows us to digest the more unfavorable situations and negativity in our lives.
See the Solar Plexus Light at the End of the Tunnel
Stimulating the Solar Plexus is as easy as taking a walk and observing a sunset or sunrise. Visit a park or just watch the stars. Observing the many colors in our world can stimulate and reinforce more than one Chakra point.
Color is an important part of Chakra therapy. Just like sound vibrations, each color has a corresponding wavelength.
A simple way to fortify or help keep your chakras balanced is to wear clothing or an item of the corresponding chakra color. Try this exercise: as you go about your day, periodically think about the color you’re wearing. Imagine that color infusing into the corresponding chakra point. See it in your mind, blending with your body, soaking into your skin. Take several deep breaths, exhaling all the air out of your lungs. Do this several times a day, or when you happen to remember. It will go a long way in helping you to condition your mind to balance your energies.
You can also try the meditation exercise above with any of the colors below to balance their respective chakras:
- Red/black for the Root
- Orange for the Sacral
- Yellow for the Solar Plexus
- Green for the Heart
- Blue for the Throat
- Indigo for the Third Eye
- Violet for the Crown
How to Balance Your Solar Plexus
There are as many different ways to balance our chakras as there are people in the world, and what works for one person may not work for another. Some people like to sit and meditate, using sounds and smells to relax and re-energize, while others may chose exercise or participating in other activities that stimulate our points. Whichever way you chose, make sure that it’s right for you. If you feel uncomfortable doing a yoga position, try listening to music and focusing on how your body responds, or if you are more energetic, a good hike or riding a bike might be better suited. This is the important part; listen to your body. It will tell you what works and what doesn’t.
To nourish your spiritual side, try volunteering or taking a class; learn something new. This nourishes our mind and spirit.
Solar Plexus Balancing Tools
Crystals
Stones of yellow hue are best to use. Crystals such as amber, citrine, golden or honey calcite, yellow sapphire are just a few. Wear or place these crystals on your body as you listen to meditative music, or carry them in your pocket.
Sound
Using sound as part of your chakra balancing is a soothing and relaxing way to release the tension and blockage within our bodies. Either by ‘toning’ which is using a specific vowel sound, drawing it out in a tone of voice you feel comfortable using. For the Solar Plexus, the sound of ‘oh’ should be used.
A Bijas mantra is different and can be used as well. The Bijas for the Solar Plexus is RAM.
New Experiences
The Solar Plexus helps with mental clarity as well as learning new things. Try taking up a new hobby or playing games that stimulate and sharpens your mind. These are excellent ways to keep this chakra open and balanced.
While the majority of these suggestions concentrate with feeding our emotional and mental side, we need to think of our body as well. Keeping the body healthy with the right food and good exercise can also keep the chakras balanced and the energy flowing. Consider eating foods that are yellow, such as some squash, yellow bell peppers and lemons. Fruits and vegetables of this color contain antioxidants such as lutein. Research suggests that lutein along with other plant basted antioxidants, may reduce the risk of chronic eye disease.
Yoga Poses to Balance the Solar Plexus
Stimulate and balance your solar plexus with full yoga classes or individual poses, listed below.
Yoga Classes on Gaia
- Third Chakra Yoga Practice
- The Healing Elements: Fire: The Third Chakra
- Authentic Power: Enlivening the Third Chakra
Yoga Poses
- Boat
- Firefly
- Mountain
- Warrior pose I
- Warrior pose II
