On Grounding
In our spiritual practice we always begin with grounding work. As coaches we are taught to begin sessions by asking, “Where are you now?” These are intentional measures to get us in our bodies and in the present moment. We aren’t able to do our inner work when our minds are racing to the future or past.
We’re not able to connect to the feeling body where the answers reside. This time to mindfully drop in first is therefore critical to our ability to have transformative experiences. For those unfamiliar, here are four simple ways to practice grounding.I encourage you to play with each to see which feels most powerful for you. With each, keep your breath running, with deep inhales and exhales to enhance the process.
Dance
Grounding can be as simple as squatting towards the ground and hoping, rythmically up and down. Many native tribespeople performed this type of practice, accompanied by drumming.
For others, dance can be a form of grounding, especially when the beat is slow and steady, with deep tones and vibrations.
Growing roots
You can stand (or sit) with, eyes closed, and imagine a network of roots that grow out of your feet and deep, deep into the earth below. Take a few minutes to capture the image vividly in your mind and allow yourself to feel the roots reaching deep into the darkest depts of the soil and rock below. Notice the heaviness of your body as gravity pulls it downward.
Spend some time connecting to the heaviness of your body.
Now begin imagining that the roots are gathering nourishment from the earth and sending all this rich, beautiful energy up through the roots and into your body. Allow yourself time to connect to the feeling of being fed and held tightly to the ground simultaneously.
Walking
The practice of walking methodically can also lead provide great results. By carefully placing the heel of the foot to the floor, slowly followed by the rotation to the ball of the foot next, and giving your entire attention to the sensations in your feet as they touch the surface of the carpet, grass, or wood below you can be oddly a powerful experience. In his book, “Mindsight: The New Science of Personal Transformation”, Dr. Daniel J Siegel describes using this technique with patients who have difficulties connecting with reality.
Be in nature
Nature is by far the most grounding pace to be. When our minds are trying to race into the future (causing much undue stress), the best place to take your practice is outdoors.
You can lie on the ground, hug a tree, sit in a meadow or on a large rock. Select a spot that feels comfortable and where you’re able to relax and get still. The important part is to connect with the earth below you or tree in front of you. Feel the mass of it. Feel the life force surging through it and allow it to support you.
Grounding is about settling in. Try not to rush or cheat the steps until you’ve mastered your ability to be here now, fully in your body, behind your eyes. It’s from this perspective that the real work can begin.
If you have trouble grounding, you’ll likely find yourself suffering from more anxiety and confusion. I can help. Reach out HERE for a complimentary session.