Guided Visualizations
CONNECTING WITH NATURE
(Based on Meditations for Self-Discovery by Shepherd Hoodwin)
This meditation is designed to help us connect with Mother Nature in celebration and an exchange of love with her.
Begin by taking three deep breaths in and holding each for five seconds and then exhaling: breath in, hold it, and breath out; breath in, hold it, and breath out; and one more deep breath in, hold it and release. Relax every part of your body starting with your feet, working your way up to your head, notice if your shoulders are arched or tense, and relax them. Put aside the cares of the day.
Now imagine you are in the midst of a magnificent, ancient forest. The air is so alive that it almost intoxicates you. Take a deep breath. Feel the oxygen enliven every part of your body. Imagine yourself now lying down on a soft bed of leaves and pine needles. Notice the rich scent in the air and hear the awesome stillness. The Earth cradles you in her arms. You feel totally loved and protected by her. You feel her heart beating beneath you in her crystalline core.
After your body rests and is rejuvenated by the Earth’s healing powers, imagine that you take flight and soar above the tree tops. As far as the eye can see are beautiful trees of all kinds, snow-capped mountains in the distance, and a magnificent, brilliant clear sky. The Sun energizes you and gives you a gift that you will later share with Mother Earth. Take a moment to become aware of what the gift is from the Sun. Do not rush the self or get anxious. The gift will make itself know to you in due course. Let go of preconceived ideas of what the gift could be and it will come to you.
Having received the gift from the Sun, you are now ready to visit Mother Earth in her most secret place. You find yourself over a lovely, green hill-top that beckons you into it. You easily pass through its surface and float down until you find yourself in the very core of the Earth. You have never seen such beautiful, crystalline formations, in shades of green, yellow, blue, and white.
From that place of oneness in the connection you have made, give the gift to Mother Earth that you have brought with you from the Sun. Continue to enjoy your experience of being in the heart of Mother Earth.