Air as a Classical Element in the Garden
Air is one of the four classic elements (also Fire, Water and Earth). Air as a classical element in the garden can be reflected in several ways namely through wind, sound and movement. Air gives life through its component molecules of Carbon and Oxygen.
Air has a close connection with the “etheric plane”, which is an unseen, unsensed aspect of our surroundings and more associated with the etheric body or the human energy fields represented through the auras surrounding our bodies. Prana or Chi is the cosmic breath of life in Chinese and Hindu philosophies. Conscious breathing as practiced in meditation and yoga connects this vital energy of our physical bodies to our higher energy bodies.
This is the essence of air albeit a metaphysical description yet as an example of one of many sacred design ideas, air can be used in the garden in a number of ways as explained below.
Sound
Air in the form of wind provides an energy force that has tremendous power. Its slow moving form creates gentle energy for wind chimes. The chimes in turn produce melodic soundwaves which travel through the air. Thus sound is an aspect of air.
Wind
Flags and banners or anything else that captures the wind like swaying bamboo or tall grasses reflect the element air and are easy to include in any garden design. But the symbolism of air and wind reflected in the use of Tibetan prayer flags is most auspicious. It is believed that the prayers inscribed on the surface of the flags when hung outside will transmit the blessings and prayers to all beings of the world carried upon the wings of the wind.
Movement
Kinetic sculpture is another way to reflect air as a classical element in the garden with the design principle of movement being the key. Without the wind, these sculptures become static and stoic always waiting for that little breeze to make them come alive with the spirit of the wind.
Filed under: Sacred Space Design Ideas
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