This article is the last of the series about the natural elements, as described in ancient Chinese belief systems. Although water is the last element to be explored, it certainly is not the least important element. Water is an essential ingredient to all living things. Our physical bodies contain approximately sixty percent water; over seventy percent of Mother Earth is covered with bodies of water; each of us should drink about two liters of water a day.
Besides life-sustaining factors, water also holds numerous metaphysical meanings. When we think of water, we often reflect upon various bodies of water found on earth. We may think of rivers and creeks with flowing waters, reminding us to “go with the flow” of life’s happenings. We may visualize lakes as being quiet and serene, carrying emotions of relaxation and rest. We may think of oceans as vast and deep (similar to our inner, subconscious selves); or, beaches with crashing waves, or gentle tides (like the up’s and down’s of everyday life). Water can be powerful, or mellow.
We know water is essential for the growth of trees, plants and all of nature. Likewise, connecting with water energies, in our spiritual lives, is also necessary for spiritual growth. It is no accident that water is used in many religious ceremonies, usually to signify purification or blessings from the Divine. Just as we shower or bathe to clean our physical bodies, we can also use water to cleanse and renew our spiritual selves.
Water also helps us in becoming more flexible. Sometimes, we need to find our authentic power within and take a strong, perhaps an oppositional stance, in certain circumstances. Other times, we need to accept what is, and simply ride out a situation. The act of discernment is a water function, as we notice the waves and determine which ones to ride. Do we swim with the tide, or do we swim against it? The waters may get murky or churned up for awhile; eventually, all will be well and serenity will be found again, like the waves on a beach after a storm.
Bringing water elements into our physical surroundings assists us in enhancing these energies. Ever notice how people congregate around water fountains in large city squares and parks? They feel (whether they realize it or not) refreshed and energized by the water and its lulling sounds. These fountains bring a sense of calmness, even when loud traffic and walking crowds are rushing by.
Consider adding a water element to your Reiki practice area if you have not done so already. Having a calming water fountain on a shelf or table will immediately soften a client’s (and/or your own) anxieties or concerns. As always, let us remember everything we have in our Reiki spaces adds energies, whether these are helpful, or work against our goals of peace and harmony. Not only does water bring its own energies, it can work to decrease other negatives ones. For example, if your space has other offices nearby that are noisy, the water element will actually decrease the effects of the sounds for your clients.
The mysteries of the water element are reflective of the mysteries found within the mystical realms, and these can be explored for our entire lifetimes. This series on the natural elements are truly “skimming the surface” of all that can be found within them. In a way, these elements are not unlike the study of the chakra system – both contain layers of meaning! May your life be blessed with more understanding of these bountiful divine gifts.
Article by Deborah Lloyd, Reiki Master
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Deborah Lloyd is a Usui and Karuna Reiki® Master and certified holistic therapy practitioner, providing Distant Reiki sessions and training in Asheville, NC. Deborah is the author of two books, 22 Messages from the Archangels; and, Believe and it is True: A Story of Healing and Life Lessons. She is also one of the co-authors of Reiki 101: 101 Answers for Your Reiki Questions. Reach Deborah at deb@deblloydhealing.com and on Facebook at Deb Lloyd Healing.
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