Sit or stand somewhere where you feel comfortable.
Close your eyes and take a deep breath in and out.
Notice where your body meets the ground.
Notice your feet.
Notice where you're touching the ground.
Now I want you to imagine roots growing from the soles of your feet,
Reaching deep into the earth.
With every breath in,
The roots spread further,
Grounding you,
Holding you steady.
With each breath in,
You feel more steady and grounded.
With every breath out,
The roots spread further and further,
Grounding you to the earth.
Now slowly scan your body.
Begin at the crown of your head.
Breathe in.
And as you exhale,
Release tension.
Move down to your neck and shoulders.
Breathe in.
And breathe out.
Soften.
Breathe in.
Continue down your arms,
Breathing in,
Releasing tension.
Down your chest.
Breathe.
Your hips.
With every exhale,
Imagine any stiffness,
Aching,
Pain melting away into the earth through your roots.
Now imagine stretching upwards like a tree.
Reach your arms overhead,
Even if you just imagine it in your mind's eye.
Lengthen your spine.
Grow tall,
Breathing deeply.
Feel the balance between the roots grounding you through your feet and the branches reaching high to the sky.
Take three more deep breaths here.
Enjoy this sensation of steadiness,
Groundedness,
Rootedness and length,
Expansion.
When you're ready,
Gently let the image of the tree fade away.
Let go of the roots.
Wiggle your toes.
Bring some movement to your fingers.
Move your body however feels good.
And when the time is right,
Gently open your eyes.