Decolonizing - Reconnecting with Nature: Embracing the Elements

Co-authored piece around the Decolonization Framework by Poka Laenui.

Understanding the concept of decolonization

Decolonization is about dismantling the structures and systems of power that perpetuate colonization and oppression, particularly in discussions around Indigenous rights, social justice, and environmental activism. It is about challenging the dominant narratives, worldviews, and ways of being that the controlling class have been imposed.

In his essay titled "Processes of Decolonization," Poka Laenui presents a framework consisting of the five stages of decolonization: Recovery, Mourning, Dreaming, Commitment, and Action. A well laid out guide to decolonization for individuals and communities seeking to reclaim, and restore our roots and challenge oppressive systems. By acknowledging the significance of each stage, we can actively participate in creating a better future rooted in social justice and equality. 

He writes that, “Colonization and Decolonization are social processes even more than they are political ones.” Decolonization begins with us, it is an intrapersonal commitment. 

In the context of reconnecting with nature, decolonization means questioning and unlearning the colonized mindset that views nature as separate from ourselves, as something to be dominated and exploited. It means shedding the disconnect, honoring indigenous wisdom, and recognizing that indigenous cultures have long understood the importance of living in harmony with the earth and its elements

Rediscovery  & Recovery: 

"This phase sets the foundation for the eventual decolonization of the society" (Section 2.1 essay).

Colonization has left deep scars on individuals, communities, and entire nations. It has not only disrupted cultural practices and ways of life but has also led to the erasure and devaluation of indigenous knowledge systems. We spend less time outdoors, isolated from the natural rhythms and cycles of the earth. From the seasons, the cycles of growth and decay, and the interconnectedness of all living beings. Being separated from nature, causes us to forget that we are part of a larger web of life and that our actions have consequences with us forgetting how interlinked our fates are intertwined. 

“Growing up in South Africa, I have always struggled to establish a deep connection with my culture, roots, and ancestors. I personally felt that separation, isolation, anxiety, and out of touch with everything around me. I was lucky to get to experience and explore the element of nature before I even became aware of how drawn to it I was. 

My ancestors are from the mountains and farms of Lesotho, the rivers and lands of Malawi, and I was born in the city, raised in the city with continuously advancing media & technology, and far from my ancestral knowledge, roots and nature-honoring practices. However, as I embarked on a journey of self-discovery away from home, I began to realize that this loss of identity was precisely what colonization aimed for - eradicating our true selves. The intergenerational trauma caused by these cycles has become so deeply embedded that it feels almost natural to accept the insignificance of our culture and heritage. To reclaim our power within ourselves and reconnect with our indigenous ways and ancestral guides requires us to undergo a process of decolonization.” (Grace)

In our own spiritual journeys and writing, we’ve learned that the existing systems in which we exist as a collective fail to promote rest and self-care, which nature and the elements naturally promote through the seasons. It is imperative that we cultivate a daily routine that nurtures our overall well-being, encompassing spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical aspects. 

Mourning 

"The natural outgrowth of the first phase is the mourning - a time when a people are able to lament their victimization. This is essential to healing." (Phase II).

Every individual embarks on their unique journey towards self-realization. We connect with our rediscovery and recovery leading to mourning as the embodiment of the Dark Soul of Night. As with all transformation, it is not easy and not without pain. This heightened consciousness helps us shed systems that no longer serve us, systems rooted in denial, destruction, belittlement, tokenism, and exploitation. We mourn our current selves, our current state.

“The idea of having no native language worries me. Would you feel like a nomad inside your own head? I cannot imagine having no words that are home. A language orphan." —Meg Rosoff

This quote has always struck a cord in acknowledging and grieving the painful disconnection severed by colonization and white supremacy. This stage asks us to make space for processing and recovery from any and all areas of loss- individually, as a community and as a world. Communal healing work is powerful here while moving through waves of intense anger, deep mourning and sweet longing. (Nyasha) 

We mourn and ask for more from societies governed by governments that value profit over people, systematic favor over human rights, and industrial advancement over environmental regeneration and harmony.

That shadow work that was being avoided happens here. Winter and The Hermit are present in this stage. It is a transformative journey towards self-healing. This is the version unaffected by societal expectations or standards, still filled with belief and love for dreaming. Our task is to restore ourselves back to that state.

We create a space for healing and reconciliation, acknowledging the pain and suffering experienced by our Ancestors and working towards healing ourselves and our communities. 

If trauma and pain can be passed down through generations so can abundance and healing. 

Dreaming 

“The full panorama of possibilities are expressed, considered through debate, consultation, and building dreams on further dreams which eventually becomes the flooring for the creation of a new social order." (Phase III)

Our ancestors and Indigenous cultures around the world have long understood the importance of living in harmony with the earth and its elements. They have developed deep relationships with the land, the plants, and the animals, and have passed down wisdom and practices from generation to generation. 

In our journey of finding our way back to the elemental spirits, it is crucial to acknowledge and honor the indigenous wisdom that has been marginalized, distorted, and suppressed by colonial powers. By learning from indigenous cultures, we can gain a deeper understanding of our interconnectedness with the earth and learn how to live more sustainably and harmoniously. The goal is to build regenerative, self-sustaining and earth-honoring systems and practices, putting the seasons and elements into daily use and interpretation.

Air represents breath, communication, and clarity of mind. It reminds us to pay attention to our breath, to slow down, and listen. It is the breath of life that fills our lungs and gives us vitality. When we embrace Air, we open ourselves up to new perspectives and possibilities. We become more mindful of our thoughts and words, understanding the power they hold. 

Fire represents transformation, passion, and creative energy. It reminds us of the power of our desires and the need to channel our energy toward positive change. Embracing Fire allows us to tap into our inner strength and pursue our dreams fearlessly. It reminds us to be bold and take risks, knowing that sometimes we need to let go of what no longer serves us to create space for something better.

Water represents emotions, intuition, and flow. It reminds us to honor our feelings and to trust our inner guidance. When we embrace the Water element, we learn to trust our instincts and go with the flow. We allow ourselves to feel deeply and express our emotions authentically. Water teaches us the power of surrendering and finding peace amid chaos.

Earth represents stability, grounding, and nourishment. It reminds us of our connection to the land, to the soil beneath our feet. When we embrace the Earth element, we become more aware of our connection to nature and appreciate the beauty and abundance it offers. 

Spirit represents the essence of who we are. It is the divine spark within each of us that connects us to something greater than ourselves. Embracing the Spirit element means acknowledging our spiritual nature and cultivating a deeper sense of purpose and meaning in our lives.

In the intent of building new pathways towards a sustainable, regenerative, just, decolonized, Indigenized and liberated world, we must commit anew with the natural world. The cosmos, the moon, the earth, continents, countries, the water, and the land are not objects to be exploited, abused, or drained as showcased by colonial action. We are in a living, breathing relationship with all creatures and land. Our relationship with the cosmos, the moon, the earth, continents, countries, the water, and the land needs to reflect that. 

As a world, we are disconnected from both ourselves and others. We must commit to consciously caring and nurturing our relationship with ourselves and with our community. Strengthening our disconnection from others is the idea of scarcity which breeds competition and seeing others as oppositions to your success. Each one of us is enough, and our worth or value is not dictated by our production. There is more than enough for all of us to walk in abundance and move in creativity. 

The elements are a major part of coming back to ourselves and finding the balance we have been disconnected from.  (Nyasha)

Action

The final stage of decolonization is the moment of action. According to Laenui, it is essential to reach an agreement on the issues to prioritize before embarking on this phase (Phase V).

I commit to actioning my commitment.

By aligning ourselves with these seasonal energies, we can cultivate a greater sense of balance, harmony, and flow in our lives.These elements are not just physical entities; they also represent different qualities and energies that exist within us and in the natural world.

Living seasonally means honoring the different energies and qualities that each season brings. It means embracing the fresh energy of spring, the warmth and abundance of summer, the harvest and reflection of autumn, and the rest and introspection of winter.

Living seasonally also means being mindful of the foods we eat, the activities we engage in, and the rituals and practices we incorporate into our daily routines. It means eating locally and sustainably, spending time outdoors, and celebrating the changing seasons through rituals and ceremonies.  It means building a world in which privilege does not dictate if it is possible to live, move, and breathe as your healthiest self. 

The key is to approach these practices with a sense of curiosity, openness, and reverence for the natural world– strengthened in community. The earth, elemental spirits and environmental cosmos deserve to be seen, restored and honored as they once were. 

Are you living in alignment with the world you wish to see for future generations? 

If you resonated with this piece, consider supporting Nyasha and Grace’s co-authored oracle project:

Elemental Alchemist Oracle Deck: https://publishing.andrewsmcmeel.com/book/elemental-alchemist-oracle-deck-and-guidebook/

Elemental Alchemist Journal: https://publishing.andrewsmcmeel.com/book/elemental-alchemist-guided-journal/