The one thing we know for sure about a tree is that the deeper its roots are, the more grounded and stable the tree will be.
Unlike trees, we don’t have roots. We do, however, have a centering force, a way of seeking to be grounded. Some of us are still working on it, but for so many, being grounded is how they are. We used adjectives like “he is so together” or “she is always calm and composed” when we refer to people that are centered and grounded. In a metaphorical way, their roots have grown strong and deep.
We test our stability when we are pushed, shoved, or lose our balance, the same way that trees get tested during storms or high winds. Facing our storms is when we need to count on our roots to be deep, to be able to keep us grounded.
But how do we get grounded?
Trees need a combination of factors to grow tall and strong; good soil, water, and wind.
Yes, wind.
Trees need wind to test their strength, to ensure that their roots are deeply developed in order to withstand the strongest of gales, whenever they may come.
In life we work very hard to avoid winds or storms, but yet, they still come. They still surprise us and sometimes even throw us off balance.
Knowing that storms can and will come, the question is, how deep are your roots?
How can we make our own roots stronger?
Planting yourself in good soil is as simple as being mindful, being present. Achieving wellness is like life giving water for the whole person; physically, socially, intellectually, spiritually, emotionally, and occupationally.
But maybe beside making sure we get the right amount of water and nutrients, we need to learn from the trees to embrace the wind.
To let the storms come.
To let them bend us and sway us.
To stop resisting them.
If instead, we gracefully allow the wind to test our roots, our innate capacity to grow them will only become stronger.
Being grounded is letting your roots dig deep into the soil, finding that “one thing” that brings stability both when the storm comes and when all is calm.
Practices that facilitate “being grounded” differ from person to person. Coming back to your breath or focusing on your breathing, looking intently at a certain image, listening to a certain sound or to music, or participating in an activity are all different methods of grounding. No matter which you prefer (and there are more than just these!) the most important thing is that you work at it and develop it. Find what grounds you and make it a part of your routine. Add it to your “tool box”. Make it part of who you are so that when the winds come, you will know exactly what helps you dig your roots down further in the soil.
With deep roots, you will be able to not just withstand the wind, but to embrace it: being tested by it, bending to it, and swaying…
But Never Breaking.
-Be Well, Grace
