By Courtney Elmes
In recent years, I have been exploring how the intersections of Sacred Earth practices and Climate Activism interweave and balance out. What is obvious to me now, though perhaps worlds apart for some, is that both come together naturally, entwining with ease when one cares deeply for the Earth.
First, to dive into semantics and define the two…
- “Sacred” – anything seen as holy
- “Earth” – in regards to the planet we walk upon
- “Practices” – put into a form of doing in daily life
- “Climate” – in regards to the weather patterns on the planet over a long period of time
- “Activism” – taking deliberate action to advocate for something one strongly believes in
As you can see, both are focused on our environment. However, I invite you to reflect on your own interpretation of these concepts. Do you find that you have preconceived notions of what elements each one contains?
Activism is often seen as somewhat forceful (i.e. active), whilst Sacred is usually seen as rather passive (i.e. holy). Therefore, incorporating two apparently opposing concepts can be an interesting thing to dive into… and, indeed, the nature of yoga – uniting supposedly polarised elements.
We can, for instance, be ‘passively active’, by bringing presence into each moment – as seen in Buddhist practices such as “taking a seat” in any working meditation – this could be something as simple as washing the dishes whilst humming a beloved mantra.
One example of a Sacred Earth practice is flower mandalas, known well in Indonesia and also Tibet. Infused with intention and prayer, these healing art forms are a way of creating art through nature. Climate activism includes any action that can be seen as working towards justice for the environment. So, in essence, a flower mandala can be that, too.
Thich Naht Hanh is a prime example of bringing these two overlapping disciplines together and bridging necessary action with a peaceful demeanor. A renowned peace activist and Buddhist Monastic, he has been known to break the law in the dire urgency for action in regards to saving human life (read this account in his book, ‘Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet’).
He has spoken of how his walking meditations and breathing practices have been his way of maintaining a balance, and keeping his sanity, in such uncertain times. Returning to the breath is a vital reminder for any activist. This is where peace arises amidst the apparent chaos. And if you can find this inner peace in such circumstances, then you are mastering the art of mindfulness.
There are many different methods of acting for something we care deeply about, most importantly responding authentically in any given situation we may find ourselves in. In today’s world of somewhat topsy-turviness, where we as a species have created a rather distorted (but somehow, still divine) way of living in society – so far from our natural inclinations – knowing we have the ability to simply be with any emotions that arise within, or experience that arises outside of us, is as vital as ever.
As for the importance of incorporating peacefulness into our actions towards justice, whether it be environmental or social causes, Gandhi himself said how he felt it is impossible to live the kind of life taught in the gita and still engage in violence. Non-violent communication is a topic that was covered in my Sacred Earth YTT with Awakened Spirit Yoga,and something that requires attention, as much as I incorporate it into my own life, taking constant effort and reflection to fully adopt into our ways of living; bringing consciousness all the more to our thoughts, words, deeds and actions.
Non-violent civil disobedience has been the most effective way, looking to the past, that has propelled a rights movement towards success. Just look at the Indian Independence Movement of the 1930s-40s. Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence (Satyagraha) was central to India’s struggle for independence from British colonial rule. Another example is the Women’s Suffrage Movement in the US and the UK, who used non-violent strategies such as marches and hunger strikes to demand the right to vote. These days, global movements such as Extinction Rebellion take on the torch to carry forward, in peaceful protest, the importance of taking care of the planet and ourselves.
One simple thing you can do in both Sacred Earth and Climate Activist spirit, is open the conversation with others, spreading awareness. The issue of needing revolutionary ways to help heal the Earth and create a brighter future for all, needs all hands on deck! You are so much more than welcome to join the cause. If you are wondering where your role is, I encourage you to do some digging into your soul-reasons… what do you care about most, that is personal to you? Reach out to your local environment networks, join a community garden project, support global causes. Practice mindfulness in your daily life, and honor the Earth in all ways. The Earth is counting on us to get ourselves together on her behalf…
