Since ancient times, philosophers and artists have honored the four natural elements – earth, air, fire and water – as essential to life. Across the globe, cultures acknowledge that these four elements not only sustain physical life but also carry many religious and spiritual meanings as well.
As spring welcomes the newness of life, now is the perfect time for families to find inspiration from the natural elements for growing and improving. Just as the natural world bursts with new energy after lying dormant over the winter months, so too can families find new growth by understanding the wisdom of some basic ritual practices.
FIRE
Fire symbolizes warmth, light, action, power and creativity. From fire, we can learn the art of transformation, by letting go of that which no longer serves us. As we say goodbye to the inward energy of winter, let fire fuel new, creative passions and inspire positivity.
To inspire your family toward positive change, light a candle and meditate on the beauty of the flame before you, sensing warmth and light. Next, build a nice, cozy fire, either in a fireplace or outdoors in a bonfire pit. For an extra special touch, toss in a packet of “Magical Flames” – children will enjoy watching the kaleidoscope of colors dancing before their eyes.
Next, have each member of your family write down any personal fears or negative thoughts they wish to release. Then, ceremonially burn them in the fire to symbolize a new beginning. Spend time afterwards expressing the changes you desire, whether through painting, writing, dancing or discussion.
WATER
Water is the element associated with cleansing, healing and dreaming. From water, we can learn the art of self-reflection, trusting intuition and going with the flow. Just as water moves fluidly through its surroundings, so too can we move through our emotions with ease by expressing gratitude in our lives.
To honor this element, first take a hot bath or simply wash your hands mindfully, picturing the water washing away negative emotions or beliefs. Next, fill a jug with clean, cold water and express your appreciation for its life-giving role in your life. Perhaps add a squeeze of lemon, some sprigs of fresh herbs or a pinch of sea salt to taste. Ask everyone to reflect and share three things they are grateful for before toasting together.
Dr. Masaru Emoto, a Japanese scientist and author, conducted a series of studies which demonstrated the power of words on the structure of water. He tested both positive words, such as “love and gratitude,” as well as negative words, such as “hatred and anger,” and discovered under the microscope that organized water crystals formed from the positive words and disorganized crystals formed from the negative words. Share his fascinating work with your family to spark curiosity and inspire the power of positive communication.
AIR
Air is the element associated with intellect, communication, clarity and inspiration. From air, we learn how to sharpen our mental focus and find stillness and peace.
Meditation is a time-honored practice for stilling the “monkey mind” and reducing stress to the body and soul. Even young children can practice the art of mindfulness, which can help them find a sense of calm.
Children can be aided in meditation or breathwork activities by using a stuffed animal as a “breathing buddy.” Ask them to lie down on their backs and place the animal on their bellies, then watch the buddy rise and fall with each breath. Alternatively, you can lead them in a guided color visualization as they imagine breathing in a specific color while they inhale positive feelings, then breathing out any tension or negative feelings. Afterwards, ask them to share their thoughts about the exercise.
To further honor air, open a window and note the feeling of the cool wind on your body. Encourage children to think about what the sensation feels like in their lungs and on their skin. Next, practice breathing mindfully together, slowly breathing in for a count of four seconds, holding the air in for another four seconds, then gradually releasing the air for a final count of four seconds. Repeat this “box breathing” activity for several minutes until your mind feels calm and you are relaxed. Express gratitude for the abundance of air around you.
EARTH
Earth embodies stability, safety, protection and physical connection. From earth, we can learn to feel grounded and supported in all that we do. This element reminds us to care for ourselves, others and the planet.
To honor earth, go on a nature walk outdoors and focus mindfully on each footstep as it touches the earth. Notice the gravity that connects you to our planet and ask the children to visualize roots extending from the base of their spine all the way down deep into the earth, grounding them like an unshakable tree.
Next, return home and cook a nourishing meal together, perhaps using root vegetables to make a big pot of soup. Let children help chop the veggies and stir the pot as everyone expresses thanks for the earth’s bounty that provides us with nourishment to keep our bodies alive and healthy.
Incorporating the wisdom of the four elements into your family’s life will invite a deeper connection with nature and each other while inspiring gratitude, mindfulness and positive change. What other ways can your family think of to honor the magic of earth, air, fire and water this spring?
This article appears in BendNest Spring 2025.
MAKE LOCAL JOURNALISM HAPPEN
Republish our articles for free, online or in print, under a Creative Commons license.
Love this article. So important to for our children to be connected to nature. This is why I love the Waldorf Schools. Such a good foundation for young children. Thank you!!