Air

In this article an in-depth look is taken at the element Air. This article is part of a four part series, the other articles in the series are Earth, Fire and Water. The articles can be read in any order.

Associations

Traditionally Air is associated with the east, with the spring equinox and with dawn. Of the four magical tools, the wand is associated with air and with the east. Colours that are associated with Air and the east are the colours of the sky, like light blue and white, and yellow. Traditionally a distinction is made between male and female elements, and between constant and inconstant elements. Air is considered male and constant.

Interpretations

Air stands for the intellect and for communication. Science, logic, computers, the Internet: all are associated with Air. These are things with great potential, that are valued very highly in our culture.

In many western esoteric traditions the person who leads a ritual is placed in the east. The east is the direction where the first morning light comes from; in a symbolical sense this is the direction where wisdom and enlightenment are found.

The qualities associated with Air have great potential, but they also pose a challenge. This can best be illustrated by looking at the 'mad scientist' figure in horror and science fiction stories. Intellectual ability that is not balanced by ethics and common sense can lead to disaster. Intellectual ability enabled us to create the nuclear bomb; ethics and common sense should stop us from using it.

Experiences

Here are some practical exercises you could do to further explore the role of the element Air in your life.

take some time in the morning to sit down and go through the things you have to do that day. Imagine yourself doing them, in harmony with yourself and all around you
learn about breathing exercises. Even if you're not a professional actor or singer the breathing techniques that they use will improve the quality and clarity of your voice, and they may also help you to feel more centered and self-assured when you speak
let your voice be heard. Speak before an audience, write an article and publish it on the Internet, or send a letter to a local newspaper about a subject that concerns you
pick a subject that you'd like to learn more about. Then see what you can learn about it by surfing the Internet, visiting your local library, or using any other means at your disposal
think about whether you have developed your intellectual abilities to their full potential. Did you get the schooling you wanted? Does your job leave you room to use your intellectual abilities? Are there things you can do to improve things?

Further exploration

Take some time to explore air in connection with other elements:
Earth and air
Air and fire

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