Water is an essential element in our lives. We drink it, shower in it, bathe in it, and enjoy recreational activities in it, and water for our health is always important to create a healthier body and a more balanced wellness practice.
Water is essential for staying healthy and alive. We can live for weeks without food but only a few days without water. If the body is dehydrated our cells become sluggish and too dry to perform their functions at optimal levels, so as the temperatures start to rise again this weekend, make sure you remain hydrated and take on plenty of fluids to look after the physical body.
But mind and spirit can also benefit from the water element. On an energetic level, water corresponds to our emotional wellbeing. It’s at once calming and soothing, but there’s also a sense of release when we cry and feeling of power in the rain, storms and its ability to put out fires. The beautiful thing about this element is that it’s so easy to add into your everyday routines.
You may or may not realise it, but you have many rituals in your life already. These might be a morning yoga stretch before breakfast, your mid-morning cuppa with a snack, or turning all the lights off before bed. These little actions create stillness and bring you back to the present moment.
The physical act of setting intentional rituals enables us to balance, centre, and rejuvenate. They help us throughout the day and can create a more vibrant life experience. Summer is often the time when we feel most energised and positive, so it’s the perfect time to explore new rituals that include the element of water.
Create a sacred space
Create a space to practice meditation or just to have a moment of stillness this summer. You may already have the perfect spot in mind, or you can use natural mat or cushions to create a cosy haven. Add items that represent the four elements, such as a seashell for water, candles for fire, a feather for air, and a crystal for the earth, or you can simply write these elements on a piece of paper.
The power of water is well known, and with the understanding that the body is largely made up of water, then the connection to using water as an element in a meditation space makes sense. So, like crystals, it would seem that water might also act as a conduit or “holder” of energy in a meditation space. So not only can the sound bring a calming feeling, but the holding of positive energy can also help keep a meditation space calm and quiet.
Indoor water features have become popular décor features for their visual beauty and calming effect. Water naturally purifies the air making it easier to breathe and healthier for our skin. If you’re looking for a spot for an indoor fountain, consider near your meditation space. Add a few drops of your favourite essential oil for instant aromatherapy. If that’s not your style, then use the symbolic forms of water, which includes glass and wavy formations.
Stop for a moment to take a few deep breaths in this space to give your energy and vibration a boost whenever you need it.
Bathing ritual
The element of water is about flow and letting go, so a bathing ritual is a perfect way to honour your body and your emotions. Daily washing is an opportunity to connect with the purifying properties of water. As you wash, acknowledge that water is cleansing your physical body, as well as your spiritual and emotional bodies. Take your time and bring love and attention to each body part as you clean.
Indulge in a ritual bath and pay attention to how the water feels on your skin and fill the tub with your favourite bath salts, essential oils and dried flowers. Light candles and play relaxing or soothing music. Bathe with intentional slowness, and give thanks to your body for supporting you. If you wish to let go of an emotion, visualise it being washed away with the water as it drains away.
Take a moment to notice how you feel before, during, and after your time in the water. And you’ll get a good sense of the power of this element.
Drink Up
Make a point of appreciating the water you drink, giving thanks for its life-sustaining properties. While holding a glass of water, take a moment to close your eyes and feel gratitude for the water of this earth. Feel into the oceans, rivers, rains, and streams, and sense genuine appreciation for the life that this element brings. As you drink, allow yourself to be nourished by this gratitude.
Another way to turn water into a ritual is by going all-out on your next cup of tea and doing a herbal tea meditation. From the moment you boil the kettle to the very last sip, just take your time and treat it like a mindfulness practice. Notice the sound that the kettle makes as it boils, savour every sip of tea, paying attention to how it tastes, the temperature and how it makes you feel.
Find your own rituals
Use your imagination this summer to find ways of using the water element to enhance your wellbeing. You could take a walk in the rain, or just listen to the sound of it falling outside your window. You can also play recordings of ocean waves, babbling brooks, or thunderstorms to get the essence of water flowing in your life.
A life without health is like a river without water.
For some FREE guided meditations to aid your health and wellbeing, visit my simple self-care page.
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