Remember your belonging

When the human world feels like a dangerous and challenging place - or even just tiring - it's easy to feel untethered; as if we're 'of the world' but not truly rooted in it. The reality is that you are absolutely part of the Earth. Indeed, as Max Ehrmann wrote in Desiderata: 'you are a child of the universe no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here.'

This simple practice is a way to return to your place of belonging, both physically and spiritually, by attuning to the land, the elements, and your own deep knowing. By remembering your energetic roots that move through the world with you.

Arrive and acknowledge

Wherever you are, pause and take three deep breaths.

Say, either out loud or to yourself: I am here. The Earth knows me. I belong.

Engage your senses

Slowly, one by one, awaken your senses (I recognise and respect that not everyone has access to all these senses):

Touch: Run your fingers over a leaf, a rock, the bark of a tree, or any organic surface. Let the textures remind you of Earth's presence.

Smell: Breathe in deeply. What scents reach you? Soil, rain, the faint perfume of a flower?

Sound: Close your eyes. What do you hear? The wind? Bird song? The sound of distant water?

Sight: Open your eyes as if seeing the world for the first time. Really examine one small thing in tiny detail.

Connect

If you're near water, dip your fingers in and anoint your forehead, heart, or hands.

If you're near earth, press your hands or feet into the soil, feeling the steady presence beneath you.

If you're near a tree, place a hand on its trunk. Send the tree a greeting, out loud or with silent intention.

A simple devotion

Offer a word, a breath, a song, or a moment of gratitude. If it feels right, say something like:

"I remember. I belong. Thank you."

Let this be enough.

Closing

This practice can be done almost anywhere outdoors, or even by an open window. Each time you do it, you restore and re-energise the connection between you and your Earth family.

You belong. You always have.