BY GUEST WRITER LYNDA LEE ABDO

There are several modern movements re-examining our relationship with the earth and how “she” naturally supports our health. Our Earth is a solid, grounding force that gives us a feeling of security. It is “terra firma” under our feet, and its revolutions create gravity securing us to the planet. We receive our water, food, healing herbs, and shelter from great Mother Earth. But she has subtler supportive energies that nurture us as well. The earth has powerful healing capabilities that we, as a species, have grown away from with our modern lifestyle.Our love of modern electronic equipment constantly places us in an atmosphere of “positive” ions that permeate the air. Positive ions are natural, but when there are too many (without the balance of negative ions), the excess drains our physical energy and compromises health. It is similar to feeling weak when we get too much sun exposure. We receive negative ions from natural things such as rainfall, ocean surf, pine forests, or even just walking barefoot on the grass. Negative ions can bring immediate relief from stress and this process is often referred to as “grounding.” Negative ions are worth looking into and if you don’t know about their relaxing health benefits, here are just a few:

• Decreases respiratory rates, calming the body, and reduces hyperactivity
• Freshens the air reducing allergens -- helping allergies
• Improves mental focus and performance
• Improves immune function, circulation and helps alleviate pain
• Lifts the mood, and helps alleviate depression

The Earth is our primary generator of these healthful negative ions often called “vitamins of the air.” Too many positive ions recirculating in a building with no windows that open for fresh air -- are a key component in what is known as “sick building syndrome.” Many work places drain our precious health. When we work all day in a room full of computers and electronic equipment, too many positive ions make us cranky and irritable. Other positive ion generators include TVs, computers, smart phones, wireless appliances, heaters, ovens, air conditioners, pollution, and car exhaust to name a few. We are constantly being bombarded by a surplus of positive ion energy.Another subtle earth energy that is very healing is the “heartbeat” of the earth, also known as “Schumann’s Resonance.” This vibration is a natural part of earth’s electro-magnetic field. This frequency vibrates at 7.83 Hz. and matches our human alpha brainwave. This is the brainwave we use for meditation or hypnosis. We have discovered that astronauts separated from this electro-magnetic field (EMF) for too long became quite ill. Solar sunspot activity can alter this natural vibration, and sunspot cycles occur approximately every 11 yrs. It is interesting to note that the peaks of these cycles are curiously associated with great social unrest and major wars.We continue to discover the subtle effects that EMFs can have on behavior. Many animals such as dogs, rats, snakes, weasels, and centipedes are sensitive to the earth’s changing electro-magnetic fields. These species in particular can feel faults shifting, and are known to evacuate an area up to a week before a disastrous earthquake strikes. We theorize that migrating birds have magnetic particles in their brains that help them navigate. It is fascinating to discover, through viewing maps of Google Earth, that cows will graze exclusively in a North/South direction! The whole herd faces the same way and will even turn simultaneously when changing directions. We humans have lost most of these innate abilities to navigate.The traditional compass school of Feng Shui has spent generations carefully observing earth’s subtle magnetic influences -- and the effect it has on buildings, homes, and people. Feng Shui consultants frequently use the earth “element” to ground particular energies inside or outside a home, just as electricians use the earth (i.e. grounding plug) to stabilise static electrical energy. Likewise, it is a common practice for fuel tankers to load flammable fuel on what is known as a grounding pad that will neutralise any positive electrical ions or sparks that might start a fire. The idea of grounding and balancing the energy of a house is key in Feng Shui. An unbalanced home stresses the occupants. The earth remedy is a regular part of the Chinese “five-element” system and includes anything made of mineral including such common objects as clay, brick, ceramic, cement, stone, sand, or stucco.Most modern homes are built on concrete slabs or footings giving the structure a strong stable foundation. Homes that are raised above the ground, (allowing water or air to pass freely underneath), are not considered optimal since the “chi” is moving and unstable. Considering the type of soil a home is built on is also important. Soil composition and “compaction” (ability to hold water) are looked at carefully by a good consultant. The dirt around a home ideally should be able to stick together which can hold a greater weight load, auspicious for any construction. Soil that can be compacted also shows the ability to hold moisture, and this capacity allows plants to thrive. Water and moisture are equated with wealth in Feng Shui tradition. Earth that is too sandy or clay has more difficulty in nourishing plant life; and vibrant plants protect the land by holding it together with their roots, and maintain healthy oxygen levels.Even earth-tone colours have a psychological stabilising effect on people. There are hundreds of shades of browns that are popular because they subconsciously give us a sense of emotional security. We love chocolates, brown sugar, our morning cup of tea or coffee, and delicious baked bread or pastries. Skin tones too come in all shades of brown and are reflections of the earth’s soil: from the lightest beige to the deepest ebonies.The Earth is our physical mother in a profound sense and we literally benefit by re-connecting with her on many levels. Many spiritual practices start with grounding exercises in which we re-establish our connection to the earth to strengthen our bodies. Yin and yang balance in nature, very important in Feng Shui practice, is constantly being refined and harmonised by the natural rhythms of Mother Earth. The Sun provides positive yang/masculine ions stimulating us; and the negatively charged ions or yin/feminine aspects of nature then revitalise our bodies through relaxation. This is the vital balance of the Earth.The healing quality of the natural environment provides a wealth of health benefits if we just embrace her. So try kicking off your shoes and start enjoying nature once again and get grounded!  Take off your flip-flops next time you are at the beach, or a grassy park, and see if you feel better!* A classically trained Feng Shui consultant can advise you of the best areas in your home to use the earth element and guide you in making the best choices to promote your home's natural healing energy. The skillful use of earth is very important in traditional Feng Shui and can boost your life in many positive ways. For more information please visit my website at: www.fengshui2bliss.com© 2016 Lynda lee Abdo 

Photo: Pedro Lastra