Practicality
The element of earth is embodied in the physical substance of the mountains, the soil, and the life that springs from the soil. In mountains we see the stability and solidity of earth. Soil provides nourishment and vegetation sustains life.
Earth is the cradle of all the other elements. From the earth we draw the materials on which our society is based. Our food and shelter is reliant on the earth, as is our ability to carry water, to contain fire and to move with air. Our monetary system is a symbolic representation of gold and the material possessions we can buy. The cycles of earth are dependable and predictable, which allow us to live structured, ordered lives.
Earth creates and nurtures life, much like our bodies are able to do. The creativity of earth is very productive and useful. The materially creative are able to see the potential of an object and craft it according to their design. In doing this they use the five senses that allow us to experience the physical world.
Earth is element of the everyday hero, the hunter, the chieftain, and the mother. It is the element of abiding patience and the element of abundance. Earth encourages self-recognition, and it pushes us to achieve. It shows us the sacred duties inherent in being human in its fullest potential.
Following the Earth is a sacred choice that comes with the acceptance of personal, spiritual destiny. It is the full understanding of the forms we have chosen for our lives. It forces us to assume authority and responsibility in our own lives, and in so doing, become the creators of our own destiny.
Earth is the element by which we regain our connection to natural spiritual wisdom. It is the revealed truth that comes to us unmasked, as we face our lives directly, head on, for what they truly are.
Earth is the element of celebration, ceremony, and ritual traditions. Earth is humble gratitude, it is the grace of accepting the experiences of our lives as part of a greater pattern. Earth teaches us to relax and enjoy our lives. It shows us how to make that which is routine become ceremonial rituals of honor. . It is also the element of endurance which sustains us so long as we do not strain its material limitations.
Some live closer to the Earth than others. Some are so Earthy that others perceive them as sturdy, robust, stubborn. The gift they have to give is a natural ability to build slowly and steadily from even the most meager beginnings, and to maintain a constant, safe and solid presence for those who depend on them.
Earth people are in tune with the solid matter of the earth. They don't want to fly away - they want to build a solid future here. They are not interested in discussing philosophy - they already have theirs etched in stone. They would rather not get lost in fantasy. Their world, the real, tangible world, lives inside of them.
Feminine
Cardinal Point/Direction: North
Season: Winter
Associated with the Body