Rooted Resilience
Embracing the Year of the Wood Snake
"If we surrendered to earth’s intelligence, we could rise up rooted, like trees."
— Rainer Maria Rilke, Letters to a Young Poet, Letter 7
As we step into the Year of the Wood Snake, many of us feel as though we are holding our breath. The weight of uncertainty, fear, anger, grief, and division looms large in our collective consciousness. Yet, we may find whispers of something else: an invitation to grow, to adapt, and to rise.
The Wood Snake brings with it the qualities of patience, adaptability, and quiet persistence. Wood energy in Chinese Medicine is deeply connected to growth, vision, and flexibility—like a tree that bends in the storm yet remains rooted, finding new paths to thrive in even the most challenging environments. The Snake, in turn, teaches us to move skillfully through complexity, shedding what no longer serves us and embracing transformation. Together, they remind us that adversity is not the end but the fertile ground for renewal.
Facing Hardship with Grace
The challenges of this moment in history feel immense. Political shifts, global crises, and the echo of past wounds weigh heavily. These pressures can tighten our bodies, limit our breath, and leave us feeling disconnected from ourselves and each other. But just as the Wood element grows toward light, even through cracks in concrete, we, too, are capable of creating space for hope and resilience.
Through the lens of somatic practices, we understand that transformation begins within. By listening to our bodies—our breath, our tension, our stillness—we can gently guide ourselves out of fear and into presence. From this grounded place, action becomes possible.
A Somatic Practice for Rooted Growth
This month, I invite you to explore a simple yet profound practice inspired by Wood energy:
Pause and Ground: Sit comfortably, feet planted firmly on the ground. Visualize roots growing downward into the earth, anchoring you. Breathe deeply into your belly.
Expand with Intention: As you inhale, feel your ribs widen, imagining branches reaching toward the sky. As you exhale, allow yourself to release tension, like leaves falling in autumn.
Embrace Adaptability: Gently move your spine—twisting, bending, and stretching in ways that feel natural. Notice the interplay of strength and flexibility in your body.
This practice reminds us that even in challenging times, we have the capacity to remain steady while exploring new ways of moving, thinking, and being.
Wood Snake Wisdom for the Year Ahead
Growth Through Uncertainty: Like Wood energy, growth often feels messy and unpredictable. Embrace the discomfort as part of the process.
Transformation Through Shedding: Just as the Snake sheds its skin, allow yourself to let go of habits, fears, or beliefs that no longer serve your highest good.
Connection Through Community: Trees share resources through their root systems. In the same way, lean into your relationships, finding strength in collective care and support.
This year will likely test us in many ways, but it also offers profound opportunities to redefine what is possible. Together, we can channel the Wood Snake’s resilience and wisdom, finding strength in softness and clarity amidst complexity.
With care and hope,
Kathryn
Ways to Work With Me
If this message resonates, consider these offerings to support your growth:
Somatic Exploration: Mindful, body-centered practices for healing and resilience.
Personalized Yoga Sessions: Tailored to your unique needs.
Group Classes: Practice in community.
Custom Energetic Profile: Discover yourself through Five Element Theory.
Free New Year Toolkit: Practices for better sleep, easeful digestion, and calm.
Each offering is a step toward rising rooted, like trees—strong, flexible, and deeply connected.