The current state of our economy may have you feeling as if you are drifting aimlessly in a sea of mixed emotions. In times like this finding a sense of security, confidence, and stable ground will help soothe your nerves so you can remain focused and productive. So what can you do to regain your footing? If we look to ancient practices such as Feng Shui and Yoga we find many simple yet highly effective grounding modalities that will have you feeling centered in no time.
Feng Shui Grounding Techniques
Developed some 6,000 years ago, the practice of Feng Shui finds its basis in the cycles of nature and the 5 core elements (water, wood, fire, earth & metal) believed to be found in all things. Of these 5 elements, the earth element is considered the most grounding. Therefore, if you imbue your space with plenty of earth elements (square or rectangular shapes, earth color hues, stones, granite, slate, plaid or checked patterns) you will invoke feelings of stability.
The areas of your home or office that naturally gravitate to this element are the Northeast, Southwest and Center point of the structure. Placing large pieces of furniture, a statue or pillar in your space will also activate a sense of stability. The girth and height of these objects have an anchoring impact; however, just be cognizant of placement next to a bed or seating area, as their size can be rather imposing.
Support From Behind
In Classical Form School Feng Shui, the structure (macrocosm) and the occupants (microcosm) should always have support. This means the rear of the property is adequately landscaped with higher forms of vegetation (trees or hedging) and/or rockery and fencing. Internally, all beds and seating areas are supported with a solid wall. This type of alignment provides proper support, an essential ingredient when it comes to feeling grounded.
Scents
The sense of smell has a powerful impact when it comes to our emotions. The olfactory bulbs have a direct line to one of the oldest parts of our brain (Limbic System) that is responsible for interpreting our surroundings. That interpretation is reflected as either a positive or negative emotion. Spritzing pure essential oils in your space on a daily basis will uplift the energy, naturally cleanse the air, and can have an amazing stabilizing result. Choose grounding oils such as sandalwood, patchouli or vetiver for the greatest impact.
Standing Strong With Yoga
Yoga practice has a way of soothing nerves and calming the mind. Focusing on standing poses will bring a grounding energy to your practice. Feeling all 4 corners of your feet root into your mat and into the earth beneath your mat will center your energy and help you "stand up," face your fears, and not run away. Simple poses like Tadasana (mountain pose), warrior poses or balancing sequences all reinforce the lower chakras, especially the root chakra (Muhladhara). This chakra is associated with life's basic needs (food & shelter) that tend to be shaken when our financial picture takes a turn for the worse.
In this time of economic turmoil we can look to these ancient practices to help us cope with life's challenges. Allow the wisdom of the sages to be a refuge and tool for responding creatively to these changing times.
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