Nature Connecting Practices

Each morning I connect with and give thanks to the natural world, the elements. For me it is a reminder and a grounding to stay present with the Earth.

I learned this from the Haudenosaunee people and their thousand year old Thanksgiving Address and now use my own shorter version daily.

There are thousands of ways of connecting with nature. What is important is that we take time to do so consciously, offering our gratitude.

People’s Nature Connecting Practices and Experiences:

—from Oak Chezar, Rocky Mountains, CO

HOW TO HUG AN ASPEN TREE WHILE SURROUNDED BY WILDFIRE

excerpt:

4.
Still holding tight, Listen.
Widen your gaze to the forest surrounding you both
Let it all happen, receive
Feel all their essences flow into your heart
Your beautiful, aching heart.

My own Nature Connecting Practices and Experiences

I have for decades cultivated friendships with trees. Their intelligence and energy have contributed greatly to my life through sitting with them, conversing, and being gifted in their company.

When I feel a need for clear-thinking, I will seek their company and presence to help clarify my own energy and thoughts.

I currently live near a small forest and an arroyo with an aspen grove where I go to do yoga stretches and eat my lunch each day. I have for 55 years lived my commitment to myself and the Earth to eat my lunch outdoors (except in the snow).