pṛthvī

pṛthvī is a word in Sanskrit that refers to the earth element. This element encompasses the characteristics of solidity, density, resistance, and groundedness. It is a quality that we experience in varying degrees at many different levels.

There is the solidity of the world that surround us. There is the solidity of the body. We experience this to varying degrees when we practice yoga poses. We can specially feel it when we engage muscles to perform a pose. At a much subtler level we experience it in our state of mind and situations we go through. Sometimes our mind feels grounded and at other times very flighty. Many situations can give us a sense of steadiness and sometimes we feel like the rug has been pulled out from under our feet.

 There is an excitement that comes with the last month of the year. Excitement for what the new year may bring and also the excitement of the closing of the current year. There is also the experience of what I call the transition period we have globally been going through. During these times it is good to find something that helps us to experience the characteristics of the earth element; solidity, density, resistance, and groundedness. Yoga, meditation, physical activities, reading, spending time in solitude, walking in nature and many other things can help us to be more grounded and clear during this period. 

As we approach the end of the year I hope I get to see you in class so we can explore this sense of steadiness.

Blessings

Jorge Nihal