Roots and Reflection
When I imagine my roots sinking deep into the soil beneath me, I see a vast network that already exists below the surface of the Earth and keeps me secure.
As we approach the Embody: Origins retreat in April, I find myself reflecting on my history. I remember all the experiences I’ve lived through, the stories of my family, and the thought patterns and core beliefs that have shaped who I am today. These roots are my foundation, providing stability in moments of fear or insecurity, and they can connect me to a deep source of nourishment.
I can’t always see these roots though. They may be tangled, rotting, or caught against obstacles in the depths of my being. At times, I sense that parts of my history might no longer serve me, or that they need adjusting, but I can’t fully understand their impact on the surface level.
We tend to navigate life by focusing only on what we can mentally “see” or understand. But how do we connect with the parts of ourselves that are hidden? To explore these unseen realms, we need a different kind of awareness. It’s less about sight and more about listening, feeling, and using our other senses to receive the subtle messages buried deep within. Sometimes, even visions may arise, revealing themselves behind closed eyelids, yet still, it’s a different kind of seeing.
To continue our exploration of the world and the self, we must get curious and dive into these deeper waters. We need to gently excavate the foundations we’ve laid. Patience is key here, as our fast-paced minds can easily become distracted or overly focused on finding treasures that simply serve to strengthen our current reality.
When we slow down, turning towards the darkness while observing our thoughts, we can begin to feel into what’s there. What is making us who we are? When we recognize the impact of our lineage, stories, beliefs, and actions, we can begin to understand how they’ve shaped the way we show up in the world. This recognition allows us to evaluate what we want to keep and what we might be ready to release, composting it back into the soil for renewal.
Our life force, the flow of breath and spirit coursing through us, exists regardless of our history or ancestry. The truth of who we are, I believe, resides in this space of pure being. It’s a practice and endeavor to stay in that space, the space where everything and nothing exist simultaneously in pure consciousness, and requires willingness and attention. So, it’s important to observe the patterns we create in the world. We need to understand where they are rooted in our history, so we can shift the course of our future if anything is leading us away from love and toward disharmony.
Embodiment Practice: Tending to Your Roots
1. Set the Scene: Sit comfortably and light a candle. Take a few deep breaths to center yourself.
2. Root Connection: Close your eyes and visualize your roots extending deep into the Earth, allowing yourself to feel more grounded and supported with each exhale.
3. Reflect: Open your eyes and focus on the candle flame with a soft gaze. Ask yourself:
What parts of my history support me?
What might need to be shifted or released?
4. Renewal: Imagine the flame gently dissolving what feels heavy or outdated, making space in your being for new growth and clarity.
5. Close: Take a moment to reflect, then blow out the candle, symbolizing your release and renewal.
With love,
Devon