Grounding Right Where We Are

We cannot control the events that occur in the world. We may influence them to a degree, but they still will come like the wind. We can, though, control our response and reaction to them. We can find inner strength to weather challenges. The roots we grow are really an inside job – like a tree’s roots, moving deeper into the ground unseen.

We have a head start if we are in touch with and have focused on our inner selves. Change is not unfamiliar. We have found ways to center. We have been through change before and come out on the other end. We have a sense of what we need when change occurs. We know the best part of ourselves and that we are strong.

Strong Roots

Roots grow where water, minerals and oxygen are present in the soil. We must feed our inner selves for our roots to grow strong, so that we can withstand change. A sapling or a tree with shallow roots can break in the wind. A tree with deep roots has strength, but also flexibility. As the winds push against it, it moves with the wind, even as its roots stay strong and anchor it.

How do we gain the strength and flexibility we need in these times? We focus on the emotional, physical, mental and spiritual aspects of ourselves. This is where our roots are. We go within to feed these important roots. We balance and pay attention to these aspects of ourselves. Are we tending to them? Are any of these aspects weak or crying out for help? What do we need to do for each aspect to have strong roots assuring our well-being during these changing times?

Here are some questions to help you assess the strength of your roots right now. For each of the four aspects – physical, mental, emotional and spiritual answer these questions:

• Is this aspect in balance and where I want it to be? (e.g. in my physical aspect am I healthy and staying fit)?
• What strong roots have I already developed (e.g. do I have a way to center my emotions when they start getting out of control)?
• Where can I strengthen my roots (e.g. am I overthinking things)?
• What aspect of myself is most important to my well-being during times of change (e.g. does my spiritual foundation give me the stability I need)?

Rooted

Paying attention to our roots, we will find ourselves getting stronger. They will anchor us and also allow us to be flexible in times of change. Our roots are strong, but not so rigid that we will break. We can be flexible amidst change, because we know our roots will hold us.

Ah, my roots. I have not thought of myself as a tree but I see it now. With strong roots in my being I can find my way to the Openings that await me!

 

photo: Supareg Suksai, pexels.com