Grounding - The Roots

Mountain pose teaches us, literally, how to stand on our own two feet.... teaching us to root ourselves into the earth.... Our bodies become a connection between heaven and earth. ~Carol Krucoff

Standing tall and straight in the pose described above - Mountain pose - reminds me of how I felt as a kid standing on the peak of Mount Monadnock with my Mom and brother, Christian. I felt proud and alive; vital to my core. We had accomplished something special and we stood for so long on the rocks feeling the sturdy mountain beneath our feet. It was exhilarating.

The First Chakra - at the base of the spine - is called the Root Chakra or in Sanskrit it is called the Muladara Chakra. This is the stabilizer, the source of our survival instinct and our drive for success. It is a place to also learn patience and find deep balance.

For plants, there is no other option but to set roots. A tree for example must first set roots, spread them wide and far. The roots are less deep than you would imagine - check out this image of a Pine tree blow down - huge pancake! Only as the roots mature will the tree that you and I see respond with proper growth of the trunk, branches, twigs, leaves, flowers and fruits. The roots offer all the stability, balance, nourishment and patience that the tree needs.

As gardeners we need to always consider the roots...first and foremost. It is easy to forget about them because they are "out of site, out of mind". But we do so at our peril...and the tree's.

When you choose a plant for your garden, stop and think about the web of life that will evolve in the soil beneath and around that plant. This focus is a sure way toward ensuring success, because you will be moved to think about soil, nutrients, location, and the community of other plants.

Similarly, take a moment to think about your base energy. How are you surviving? Do you feel stable and patient? Are you feeling successful in your endeavors? These questions will remind you that you too need to think about your environment and community as sources of sustenance.

To boost your Root Chakra energy take a walk outside and find a big, old tree that you feel drawn to. Get as close as you can and be with that tree. Yes, it is okay to hug it if you really want to - it won't mind (or run away). Take note of the base of the trunk where it flares out as it enters the earth and contemplate the vast root system that is spread out all around you. It will be impossible for you not to feel a boost of energy. The tree will share with you - happily.

I assure you there is energy healing to be had all around you. Give it a shot and let me know how you do! This exercise may sound a bit earthy crunchy, but hey if it was good for Buddha!

Happy Gardening