Nature Based Spirituality
Respect and Understanding Our Home
In contemporary spirituality, the SBNR (Spiritual but Not Religious) movement is increasingly turning towards nature-based spirituality. Many see this as a means to rediscover and deepen their connection with the sacred essence of the natural world. Its growing affinity aligns seamlessly with the principles of Intentional Evolution (i.e., psyche self-correcting by design), the Humane Spectrum (i.e., a continuum of ego to compassion), and Spiritual Gravity (i.e., the heart is our compass and the center of a humane universe). Each invite a holistic re-engagement with our inherent bond to the earth and its myriad forms of life.
Nature-based spirituality, through the lens of these perspectives, is not merely about appreciating the beauty of the natural world but understanding our intrinsic role within this larger ecosystem. It beckons us to recognize the interconnectedness we wish for - a movement away from the isolation of ego-centric living towards an empathetic existence that promotes that all life is sacred.
For example, incorporating practices like forest bathing or 'shinrin-yoku,' individuals immerse themselves in the healing ambiance of the natural world, engaging all their senses to foster a profound spiritual communion with nature. This practice embodies the concept of Spiritual Gravity, where, similar to the gravitational pull of a heart-centered universe, we find a natural inclination towards harmonizing our inner landscape with the cycles and wisdom of the natural world.
Further enriching this spiritual journey are earth-based rituals and ceremonies, which serve as tangible expressions of our reverence for the natural world. These practices enable us to attune to the Earth's rhythms, celebrating its cycles and fostering a deeper sense of belonging and interconnectedness. Alignment with nature's cadences is reflective of my vision of living in concert with the Humane Spectrum, where our actions and intentions resonate with the heart's intent, guiding us towards a more compassionate, empathetic, and connected way of being.
The intersection of nature-based spirituality with environmental activism marks a pivotal aspect of eco-spirituality within these movements. Their fusion underscores a moral imperative to honor and protect the Earth, inspired by the recognition of its sacredness. Such activism is a manifestation of the Intentional Evolution towards a more self-correcting, harmonious, and sustainable coexistence with the planet. Like the Humane Spectrum, we extend compassion and empathy beyond humanity to include all forms of life.
All that said, the journey of nature-based spirituality has its challenges. The problem lies in ensuring that one’s spiritual path fosters genuine respect and understanding of the natural world. This avoids the pitfalls of cultural appropriation and superficial engagement. It calls for us to be mindful and heart-centered, where we each respect the unique teachings and practices of indigenous traditions while seeking to forge a genuine and reciprocal relationship with nature.
As we navigate the SBNR movement, nature-based spirituality, infused with the insights of my work, offers a rich and profound framework for rekindling a sacred bond with the natural world. By embracing the principles mentioned above, we embark on a transformative journey towards a more interconnected, compassionate, and spiritually fulfilling existence.
When attempting to integrate the concepts from my work into nature-based practices, here are some activities that may deepen your connection (6 of which I did when trekking across the United States in 2018):
Forest Bathing (Shinrin-Yoku): Engage in mindful walks through the forest, focusing on the interconnectedness of all life forms. This practice aligns with the Humane Spectrum, reminding us of our place within the web of life and encouraging compassionate engagement with our environment.
Earth-Centered Rituals: Create personal or communal ceremonies that honor the cycles of nature, such as solstices, equinoxes, or the changing seasons. These rituals foster a deeper connection with the Earth's rhythms and our role in the natural ecosystem, reflecting my emphasis on living in harmony with spiritual gravity.
Eco-Meditation: Practice meditation outdoors, focusing on the sensory experiences of the natural environment. This encourages a heart-centered awareness and a grounding in the present moment, in line with the principles of spiritual gravity.
Nature Journals: Keep a journal dedicated to reflections on nature-based experiences. Documenting these moments can enhance mindfulness and foster a deeper appreciation for the Earth's beauty and complexity, embodying the essence of intentional evolution.
Environmental Stewardship: Engage in activities that protect and restore natural habitats, such as tree planting, clean-up efforts, or supporting conservation projects. These acts of service reflect the compassionate end of the Humane Spectrum, where care for the environment is an expression of our interconnectedness.
Contemplative Photography: Use photography as a meditative practice to capture the beauty and intricacy of the natural world. This can help develop a deeper appreciation for the Earth and foster a sense of spiritual connection through visual expression. Many of us will be doing this with the upcoming solar eclipse - the next one happening in 2044.
Sacred Gardening: Cultivate a garden with the intention of creating a sacred space that honors the Earth and its biodiversity. This practice can be a form of moving meditation and a tangible expression of co-creating with nature, aligning with the principles of intentional evolution.
Wilderness Solo Time: Spend intentional time alone in a natural setting, allowing for a deeper introspection and connection with the natural world. This solitude can facilitate a profound encounter with the self and the Earth, echoing the journey toward spiritual evolution.
Nature-Based Art and Crafts: Engage in creating art inspired by and made with natural materials. This process can serve as a meditative practice and a celebration of nature's diversity, aligning with the ethos of the Humane Spectrum by fostering a creative communion with the Earth.
Eco-Spiritual Reading: Incorporate readings from authors who focus on the spiritual aspects of nature conservation and environmentalism into personal study or discussion groups. This can deepen understanding and inspire action consistent with my vision of a harmonious relationship with our planet.
These practices, inspired by Intentional Evolution’s insights, offer pathways for personal growth and spiritual nourishment, both of which contribute to the collective well-being of everyone and everything.