Nature Connection
This may seem obvious, but nature connection is more than simply exercising in nature, or knowing about the natural world, or even appreciating or loving nature. Nature connection means connecting with nature through mindfulness and sensory awareness. Nature connection, or “Vitamin N” as it’s been called, has well documented physical and psychological health benefits. It is also a profoundly spiritual practice.
Sections
What is nature connection?
What are mindful Earth connection practices?
Underlying assumptions of mindful Earth connection practices
Possible outcomes of mindful Earth connection practices
Experience
What are mindful Earth connection practices?
Mindful Earth connection practices help us to realize our ecological identity – that we are utterly interconnected and interdependent with the living Earth. These practices evolved at the bedsides of patients who were too ill and immobile to be outdoors. They involve a mixture of mindfulness, sensory awareness, imagery, and active imagination to engage with the beings and processes of the living world.
Underlying assumptions of mindful Earth connection practices:
That the Earth is “alive, intelligent, connected, relatives”
That we are already indivisible and inseparable parts of the Living Earth
That if we even make the smallest move towards the Earth (with respect and humility, and an open “beginner’s mind”) - it does not go unnoticed
Possible outcomes of mindful Earth connection Practices
We experience interconnectedness and interdependence
We taste/glimpse “big mind” - “the field” - “natural awareness”
We know that we and all other beings are indivisible
We know that we belong in a bigger community/family, and we can rest in this
We know that we are beloved of the Earth
We’re moved to act to free others from suffering
And we know that it’s not all up to us
Experience it for yourself
Please try this practice in your own time. Join us weekly at 10am PST for a combination of mindfulness, awareness, and nature connection practice.
