About - Grounding Green

I am Marleen (1992), an experienced Marketeer with an MSc in Business & Consumer Psychology, a passionate advocate for sustainable living, as well as a trained Astrologer and Constellations facilitator with an eagerness to understand what makes people tick. I am outgoing, empathic, creative, endlessly curious, and always dig deep to find the real answer behind the answer. Those who know me pride me on my integrity and perseverance when the going gets tough. I live in The Hague, The Netherlands, together with my partner and our furry friend Jara. With Grounding Green, I hope to show you a truly conscious, authentic and heartfelt way of being.

Hey there! My name is Marleen IJsselmuiden – founder of Grounding Green. When you're considering learning with someone, it's always helpful to know where they're coming from, so you can contextualize their teachings and determine whether they're a good fit for you. Let me therefore give you a brief introduction to my life.

I currently reside in The Hague, The Netherlands – internationally known as the city of peace and justice as well as the city by the sea – and I guess I’ve been bitten by its bug during the past ten years. I’m in my early thirties, and share a 1938-apartment with my partner and our furry friend, comedian and life teacher: Jara. We’ve been renovating our home, and I just love to let my creativity loose on this project – whilst at the same time respecting the soul of the house that has stood the test of time.

I spent my youth in a village wannabe city in the center of the country, where many people still go to church every Sunday, and decisions are made on the basis of what the neighbors would do. I have always been fascinated by how people function and how we are constantly influenced by external components. From that perspective, this was the perfect breeding ground for my investigations. For high school projects, I chose to research such topics as the prejudices Dutch people have towards Germans, and how the Nazis managed to sweep up so many through their insanely coordinated propaganda efforts. But as you might’ve guessed, I couldn’t wait to get out of this place and explore the world...

So I did. I got my bachelor’s degree in Business Administration & Hospitality Management, which introduced me to tourism and travel. I visited 24 countries across the globe – ranging from Thailand to the U.S.A., from Norway to Japan, and from Australia to Italy. I also did a half year internship behind the front desk of a five-star luxury hotel in the always buzzing city of London. Many more hotel jobs followed, where I would experience all the strangeness our humankind is.

Believe it or not, but I ended up working as an online marketeer at a corporate law firm. It was my job to promote the company, essentially making some of the wealthiest of our society even richer. Whilst it was a valuable learning experience, at some point, I just couldn't sell this idea to myself anymore. Probably no coincidence, but at around the same time I took off on a path of deep personal development. I had to discover what else there was to life and what role I could play within it. Hence I quit my well-paying job and became a student once more – this time to get my scientific master’s degree in Marketing and Consumer Psychology at the University of Amsterdam.

My change then accelerated. I started to meet like-minded people. Rebels like myself, who would ask critical questions to get to the bottom of things, and didn’t accept stuff at face value. I joined the global student organization ‘Enactus’, and would dip my toes into social entrepreneurship.

I started becoming way more mindful of my own unsustainable behaviors, that included travelling, shopping and constantly meeting up with friends over drinks. These activities sound incredibly innocent and fun to do, and in a way that’s true – in moderation. For me – and I now know that this is the case for many people – it was an escape from the unrest I felt within. I was so hungry for novelty, that there was no time for rest and reflection. There was no time for facing the traumas that had been passed onto me from generations and generations back. Even when I quit these unsustainable behaviors, I became addicted to an eco-friendly lifestyle instead. Riding along on my moral high horse, I would blame and shame everyone for not having seen the same green light as me.

I guess at some point, something deep inside of me clicked. When I uncovered what drives people to truly live sustainably as well what barriers they encounter in doing so for my thesis, my entire world view shifted. I became very disillusioned, because I had just found that the majority of people living a sustainable lifestyle do so with various forms of selfish motives. I couldn’t believe it: did that mean we were doomed as a species? I refused to accept that answer. Thank heavens I didn’t.

It was the first of many 'ego deaths' to follow, which became a portal for deep transformation. Since the world didn't make logical, rational sense to me anymore, I opened myself up to studying various ancient spiritual teachings. Stuff that I would've previously described as 'woo-woo'. I dipped my toes into Buddhism, Taoism, Mindfulness, Meditation, Yoga, Tarot, Energy Healing, Reiki, Past Life Regressions, Ayurveda, Herbalism, Crystals, Numerology, Family Constellations, and so much more. Some of it stuck around, and some of it didn't.

What most profoundly grasped my attention were Astrology, Human Design and the Gene Keys. After being confronted with my own charts as well as those of my immediate family and friends, my curiosity was enormously piqued and I eventually completed a year-long course to become a professional Astrologer. Alongside, I kept finding my way back to Ra Uru Hu's Human Design teachings, and later on to Richard Rudd's Gene Keys deepening of those, which I could easily study for hours on end. Since then, I have not only taken this information in intellectually, but learned to integrate what it means for myself and others in daily life. Constellations – family and otherwise – have been tremendously helpful in this regard, as they tend to show us what our minds aren't yet ready to see. After having undergone countless (family) constellations for myself and as a representative for others, I eventually decided that this was the practical tool I wanted to offer my clients too, as a way to drive home what is already shown in someone's birth chart. Clearly, I had to participate in yet another professional study program for this.

Through all of my direct and indirect experience, I slowly learned to see that our Earth and the Universe share an intricate connection that goes far beyond wat our minds can grasp: "as above, so below, as within, so without, as the universe, so the soul" (Hermes Trismegistus). At the same time, we live in an invisible energy field that somehow ties us to certain other people, such as our ancestors and those with whom we have 'karmic' matters to resolve.

Each time I decide that I won't let some planets or energetic currents tell me how to live my life, I am deeply humbled and forced to accept the fact that some things are simply outside our human control. Still, the seas we swim in may be beyond us, but it is absolutely up to us how we work with this energy. We have to learn to find a balance between dancing with the natural rhythms of life, whilst simultaneously taking a stand for what we believe is right and just. After all, someone wise once told me that if it's in your heart, it's in your heart for a reason.

Partij voor de Dieren Stop Ecocide actie

I personally do the latter by using my voice to advocate for the least privileged in our society: animals and nature. I have been a vegetarian since age 8, and became vegan in early 2019. I also joined the Dutch 'Party for the Animals' as an active member at the height of the pandemic. This political party is truly one of its kind, since it is the only party that adopts an Earth-central rather than a human-central point of view and one of the few that realizes that unlimited growth is never realistic. It has sustainability, compassion, personal freedom and personal responsibility anchored as values throughout its program.

I wholeheartedly stand by these values, since we can't have freedom without accountability; if we don't consider the impact of our actions on another living being, none of us would be free, because our own freedom would be constantly invaded in the name of someone else's freedom. In other words: our personal freedom ends where that of another begins. Each day I therefore try to make the careful consideration of what I want and need, and stack this up against the wants and needs of others. A healthy balance between the two then informs my choices. Needless to say, this is no easy feat. Even so, it is worth getting the hang of, because your own well-being ánd that of the world at large truly depend on it.

Finally, I work part-time as a Programme maker & Cross-pollinator at Grand Café Utopie in The Hague; a meeting place where idealists come together, work on activist projects, and exchange information. A place like this is so needed in a world in which those who have a vision for a more just and sustainable world often feel outcast and alone. Although taking time for personal development has its merits, we can't fully thrive as individuals without a supportive community around us.

It is truly all of these life experiences and efforts combined that make me, and my work as the forewoman of Grounding Green by extension, who I am today. I hope to show you how to reawaken to your authentic self, the natural world, and the skies above – just like I have done for myself.

Natal Horoscope

Astrology

My natal horoscope features a 3rd house Aquarius Sun that is tightly conjunct Saturn, and in turn squares a 12th house Scorpio Moon. As if this combination wasn't yet dynamic enough, it further depicts a massive stellium of 5 planets and the North Node in my Capricorn 2nd house. Thank the heavens for my Sagittarius Ascendant, with its ruler Jupiter in the 10th house, as it keeps pointing me towards hope and possibility.

My life seems to center around several main topics: learning and discovering new ground, uncovering shadow material and provoking truth in others, realizing what has real and long-lasting value, and fighting for what I believe is right and just.

Marleen IJsselmuiden Natal Astrology Horoscope

Sagittarius Ascendant

I am a natural optimist and instinctively drawn to gaining new experiences and widening horizons through travel and knowledge. My chart ruler (Jupiter) is retrograde, which emphasizes internal over external growth.

Jupiter in Virgo, 10th house

My urge to expand gets firmly grounded in earthy Virgo. I am highly practical, detailed and service-oriented in my approach to work. I love teaching others the wisdom I gained and am born to be a critical thought leader who leaves a mark.

Sun in Aquarius, 3rd house

I have never fit into standard boxes, nor do I intend to. I am known to be a dissident with strong ideals of what could be. I am at my best when I surround myself with other rebels and light up when I can exchange an eclectic mix of information, without the dogma.

Moon in Scorpio, 12th house

Behind my lighthearted facade, hides a deep and complex web of feelings. As a natural empath, it often takes time and space to disentangle my own inner world from others. Still, mine is the capacity to witness the darkest of truths that would surely have others running for the hills. My life is one of ongoing transformation.

Mercury in Capricorn, 2nd house

I am gifted with a strong intellect, ability to reason and learn, and a communication style that is both meticulous and to the point. I have a way of making complex theory practical and digestible. Sure, I can be overly serious sometimes, but I just don't like the unnecessary fluff and rather say it how it is. My sense of humor can be dry and sarcastic.

Venus in Capricorn, 2nd house

I adore anything that's timeless, professional and built well, and I don't mind spending my money on excellence. Beauty, to me, hides in architecture and craftmanship that's well-considered. In my relationships, I show my appreciation by offering things that are practical, tangible and real. I love to help you solve your problems, and share my resources with you.

Mars in Capricorn, 2nd house

I get motivated by working towards long-term, ambitious goals and don't shy away from a little hard work. I tend not to act impulsively, but typically have a plan for what I'm doing. By a similar token, I don't let my anger go off the rails. However, if you've managed to anger me, then you'll be sure to receive my cold shoulder. I fight for what I value deeply.

Saturn in Aquarius, 3rd house

I detest going along with what's normal just because everyone is doing it, and I rebel against restricting authority. Although my ideals are lofty, progressive and humanitarian, they mean nothing if they're not real. My fears of being outcast and misunderstood drive me to always seek to understand where another person is coming from in their view of the world.

Uranus in Capricorn, 2nd house

Too much earthly, material stability is not granted to me in this lifetime. I am here to renew the ways in which we collectively view success, money and that which has long-term value. Like the rest of my generation, I do not seek to climb the corporate ladder or accumulate wealth, but rely on nature's wisdom and inner substance.

Neptune in Capricorn, 2nd house

I am often strongly disillusioned with the state of the world; the decisions that people in positions of authority make, the structures that we're supposed to rely on and the way we treat our beautiful planet. Like the rest of my generation, I strive for a reintegration of natural rhythms. When I have enough to give, I donate my time, money and energy to charity.

Pluto in Scorpio, 12th house

I possess strong psychic abilities and tend to subconsciously provoke others to confront their shadows, the same way I've courageously held space for my own. Needless to say, this isn't always well-received. When I forget about my own power, I attract abusive behavior and power plays outside of me to help me remember.

Libra Midheaven, 11th house

I strive for justice, balance and beauty in my career and group connections. Although I may be impatient and angry deep down, I always remain polite and keep my cool amidst chaos. Through my ability to remain impartial and hear all sides of a story, I am often the spokesperson of the group.

Natal BodyGraph

Human Design

I am a Mental Projector with a 5/1 profile. As a Projector, it is my gift to hone in on a single thing or other and to process that deeply. I find my truth through soundboarding with trusted others whilst I'm in an environment that feels activating and expansive, and tend to need some time to process all the different energies I so easily pick up. With a 5/1 profile, you can expect some heresy rooted in a foundation of investigations and knowledge. Please be mindful that you may be projecting onto me, for better or worse. I am human, just like you.

Born on the Left Angle Incarnation Cross of the Alpha, my presence tends to call controlling forms of authority into question, so that leadership becomes democratic and benefits the collective. Although I'm a rather reluctant leader, others often look to me for guidance. Motivated by guilt, hoping that things will somehow magically work out is not my style. I not only know what needs to be fixed, but am able to see what can survive and what is better left to die.

Through all of my openness, I can reflect the energy you're sending out, like a mirror that contains all of you. In this way, working with me means having access to your personal tuning fork. I can be that lighthouse that illuminates your path, and brings you back home to yourself safely.

I have been in the Human Design experiment since 2020.

Defined Head

I have a natural way of knowing things that can't be explained, but that I've learned to trust over the years. By asking you the right kinds of questions, I often spur a revolutionary thought process in people. Ultimately, they get to their inner truth. My natural gifts help you understand which thoughts and ideas truly matter, and which are unhelpful and better to be ignored. This way, I make you see the forest from the trees. You'll leave feeling inspired and uplifted, and with new and creative ideas to move forward.

Defined Ajna

I think for myself and don't just regurtitate the knowledge that I've come across. When I speak my mind, you'll know that I've thoughtfully considered my point of view. Because of this, I can help you understand information and concepts in a new and unique way and provide helpful mental structure for you to prevent overwhelm. I can also suport your own reasoning process and poke holes in what doesn't make any sense, as well as expose rigid and/or outdated ways of thinking. You'll leave with new realizations and perspectives, and a mental framework to temporarily cling to.

Undefined Throat

I don't always have the right words to say and certainly can't help you manifest a new reality. My physical output depends on whether the energy is there or not, hence why you pay per product/service and not by the hour. However, it is my gift to listen to you. What's more, I know the words that you're leaving unspoken. When you ask me a question, I naturally adapt to your style of speaking. This means that I can explain things to you in your own language, so that you will understand. With my Personality Earth in gate 31, I can help you access a voice of authority that demands to be heard.

Undefined Heart

I cannot give you the impetus and motivation to grow into a better person or even to set your goals and stick with them, because my natural motivation waxes and wanes. However, I can absolutely tell you whether you're trying to use force in ways that are unnatural and unhealthy, or where you're letting a lack of self-belief influence your decision making. In my presence, you won't feel compelled to prove anything, i.e. to put pressure on yourself just to demonstrate your worth. From my perspective, you have value regardless of what you achieve.

Undefined G

I cannot tell you where to go next, because my own path is very fluid, and my personal direction might just as well take a 180 tomorrow. However, I can absolutely tell you where you're not being true to who you are at your core. I can sense where you innately want to go and whether or not you're aligned with your unique path. Besides, you won't be distracted by trying to be someone that you're not, because I don't condition you with my unique personality, but instead know how to hold space for a multitude of styles and directions.

Undefined Sacral

I cannot consistently work at your pace alongside you, let alone do the work for you, since my own fuel is inconsistent. However, I can absolutely tell you whether or not you're using your energy most efficiently and in a way that will ultimately deplete you. After all, most people are just busy being busy without actually accomplishing meaningful things, for themselves or their communities. I am really good at gently nudging your energy toward increased satisfaction by asking you the right yes-or-no questions. Besides, you won't be distracted working on projects that would light me up rather than you, so the focus can stay on attuning to your creative desires.

Undefined Spleen

I cannot give you a sense of security and warmth to cling to, i.e. protect you like a mother goose, because I don't always find that haven of safety within myself. However, I can absolutely tell you whether you exude an energy of health or disease, and where you're letting your fears drive your decision making unnecessarily. Besides, I won't unnecessarily burden you with my own fears for your well-being, or drive you to act in more spontaneous ways than you're comfortable with. With my design Sun in gate 44, I can help you cut through the bullshit.

Undefined Root

I cannot provide you with the impulse to get moving or a strict deadline for your project, because my natural energy is one of grounded calm. However, I can absolutely tell you whether I sense that you're moving at the right pace for you or are letting outside pressures mess with your head. I can also tell you when it's perhaps better to take a breather because you might be stuck in tunnel vision mode regarding what you're trying to accomplish. With my Personality Sun in gate 41, I can help you imagine your desired future reality and slowly but surely move towards that.

Open Solar Plexus

I cannot rub off my 'positive vibes' on you or compel you to surf the waves of life, because I am kind of a naturally cool cucumber myself. However, I can absolutely sense what you're feeling deep down and hold space for your genuine emotional experience. If you let me, I can help you move through the messiness of it all and see the red thread that runs through it. All the while, you won't be burdened by my emotional response to what you're going through. Whatever emotions you might sense in me, are a direct reflection of what's truly going on for you.

Grounding Green

What's in the name?

‘Grounding Green’, it’s an alliteration that I thought was fun, but my intention behind this company name was so much more than just that. It is the training that encourages understanding, the conscious awareness we all have access to, our sense of reliable footing in this world and our ultimate reason for being. It is also prosperity as guided by nature, a force of renewal, the love for ourselves and others, as well as that which calms us down and guides us back home. It is my hope that with Grounding Green’s efforts many people can lay strong groundworks for their ongoing well-being in balance with all of life. Let’s break it down, piece by piece. I'll take you on a journey that sheds light on Grounding Green's overarching business philosophy.

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Life experiences & more

The short answer

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The long read

JARA

Visionary & Business Mentor

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Marleen IJsselmuiden

Founder of Grounding Green

Who I was born to be

Natal Horoscope

Astrology

Sagittarius Ascendant

Jupiter in Virgo, 10th house

Sun in Aquarius, 3rd house

Moon in Scorpio, 12th house

Mercury in Capricorn, 2nd house

Venus in Capricorn, 2nd house

Mars in Capricorn, 2nd house

Saturn in Aquarius, 3rd house

Uranus in Capricorn, 2nd house

Neptune in Capricorn, 2nd house

Pluto in Scorpio, 12th house

Libra Midheaven, 11th house

Natal BodyGraph

Human Design

Defined Head

Defined Ajna

Undefined Throat

Undefined Heart

Undefined G

Undefined Sacral

Undefined Spleen

Undefined Root

Open Solar Plexus

Grounding Green

What's in the name?

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