The element earth stands for the north, where the sun is only at the time of the midnight sun. It is therefore fitting that the earth symbolizes the night. But it also stands for fertility and agriculture. The earth refers to our planet as well as to garden soil, the sandy beach, the rock in the mountains and even the plants that grow on the earth. Standing with both feet firmly on the ground brings earthiness and inner peace. The earth stands for quiet strength, for endurance, for reliability. It is Mother Earth who offers us refuge, in whose lap we can feel safe. Caves are the epitome of the earth element, but metals and clay are also part of the earth, as is the season of winter. Hikes in nature or working in the garden bring us into closer contact with the earth. The outer earth around us and the inner earth, which is our center. Grounded and centered, we can then face the challenges of hectic life again.