The fifth element is prithvi, known as earth. The other four elements are space, air, fire, and water.

In the human body it gives shape and structure. We see the earth element in our fascia, muscles and the layer of fat that protects our organs.  

Earth is solid and does not change easily. In our minds it is resilience and empathy.

The earth element is slow and steady. Mother Earth is solid and supportive. What are your priorities in life? What are the things that are so solid that they are a part of you? How much do you let your foundation guide your life?

When the earth element is in balance we are stable, rooted and confident.

Ayurveda teaches that life is a dance between too much and too little of each element.

Too much earth? A large percentage of the earth element could mean you have thick hair and nails or a sturdy frame. It becomes too much when you feel heavy or lethargic.

How can you balance excess earth?

Lighten up by waking up early with the sun, eating lighter grains like quinoa or millet and get moving with physical exercise.

Too little earth? It could look like trouble setting boundaries or a lack of patience.

How can you balance deficient earth?

Pause and take deep breaths throughout your day, avoid multitasking and dig deep to figure out what’s really important to you.

Grounding is a constant practice for me. I’m drawn to vata-type activities like travel and my pitta side wants things to be organized and neat. Incorporating the earth element teaches me to surrender and trust.

One of my favorite grounding practices is just to get outside into a forest. Exploring the woods with my kids is an experience that makes us all happy. Journaling also helps me to connect with my priorities. I love the practice of writing down what I am grateful for. Savasana pose is the ultimate form of surrendering to Mother Earth.

What is your relationship with the earth element?

Share in the comments below or head over to the free Simple Ayurveda Community Facebook community group.