In the ancient wisdom traditions 4 (or sometimes 5) elements are described as the basic components that everything in nature is made of. Contemplating them forms part of the first foundation of mindfulness in the Buddhist teachings and is also mentioned throughout yogic philosophy.
Week 1
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Talk
An introduction to the elements and the earth element, 9mins
Meditation
Exploring the qualities of the earth element in the body, 21mins
”In this body what is hard or rough is the earth element, what is flowing or cohesion is the water element, what is maturing (ripening) or heat is the fire-element, what is pushing or supporting is the air element.
Visuddhimagga
Week 2
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Talk
The water element, 12mins
Meditation
Exploring the qualities of the water element in the body, 23mins
Week 3
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Talk
The fire element, 12mins
Meditation
Exploring the qualities of the fire element in the body, 24mins
Week 4
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Talk
The air element, 7mins
Wrapping it all up – a final summary, 4mins
Meditation
Exploring the qualities of the air element in the body, 20mins
Additional resources
A quick read
The Elemental Self, Ayya Khema
An academic article
Four Element Meditation, Bhikkhu Anālayo