Go outside to a natural setting where you feel comfortable and connected to nature. Use a compass to locate North (your phone has a compass) to orient your mandala to the NORTH direction. Collect natural items from the ground like sticks, stones, shells, leaves, and flowers to create your mandala or earth art. Arrange the items in a circular pattern oriented to the North. This is your gratitude mandala, co-created with Mother Earth.

Grounding Meditation:
Stand at the North position of your mandala and reflect on the each of the Elements:
North (Earth): Feel your feet firmly on the ground. Reflect on how Earth supports and grounds you.
East (Air): Move to the East. Breathe deeply, feeling the air fill your lungs. Reflect on the air and its vital role in life.
South (Fire): Move to the South. Feel the warmth of the sun or imagine the fire within you. Reflect on the passion and energy in your belly.
West (Water): Move to the West. Reflect on water, considering that you are made up of 75% water. Think about being in the flow of life.
Center: Stand in the center of your mandala. Reflect on how all the elements—Earth, Air, Fire, and Water—come together within you, representing Ether or Spirit. Acknowledge that you are a part of nature. Take a moment to express your gratitude to Mother Earth for her support and nourishment.