In ecology, mutualistic symbiosis describes a relationship where two living things live closely together, influencing and supporting one another’s survival. You see it everywhere in the natural world: fungi weaving through tree roots beneath the soil sharing nutrients, bees gathering nectar while pollinating flowers, coral and algae living side by side in the sea.
The Symbiotic Breath is a small practice for grounding and breathing in relationship with the Earth.
Coming close to the earth, you may like to find a form that feels supportive and easeful to stay in for a little while. This may be kneeling, sitting, or resting in a deep squat. You will then be invited to place your hands on the ground. As you inhale, you gently press into the earth, feeling its steadiness travel up through your hands, arms, and spine. Feeling into a sense of levity or buoyancy.
As you exhale, you soften and allow your weight to settle back down, letting the earth hold you as you release.
This can also be done sitting in a chair and pressing your hands into your thighs.
We will finish in a gesture of reverence by bowing our head to the earth and bringing ourselves to rest in a child’s form. Remembering that our bodies are not seperate from the Earth.
I’d love to hear how this somatic breath practice lands for you.
