Paul Sivert on the importance of Grounding…
An essential technique for studying and performing shamanic-type exercises is the capability to ground yourself. The following is a method of grounding yourself, written by Jose and Lena Stevens in their book Secrets of Shamanism.
Begin by relaxing and closing your eyes. Take a couple if deep breaths. Then become aware of your physical body from top to bottom.
Next, shift your awareness to the earth directly below you. Go with your awareness downward into mother earth, through the layers of strata, rock, clay, and dirt until you reach the molten quality of inner earth. The shaman believes the earth is live, so greet each layer as you go down deeper into mother earth. Then establish a connection from the base of your spine to the molten center of the earth. Now with your feet firmly planted on the ground, permit your spirit body to stretch all the way down as if you had a long tail reaching to the earth’s center. Then let the energy from the earth rise up into your body, causing you to feel more solid and present.
Leave the connection in the past, and return your attention back to where you started. Open your eyes and continue your day’s activities. You can repeat the exercise whenever you feel the need.
Grounding Exercise:
- Relax and close your eyes.
- Become aware of your physical body.
- Become aware of the earth.
- Establish a connection with the center of the earth.
- Drain out tension and foreign energy.
- Bring up energy from the earth.
- Open your eyes.