Reconnecting with Nature: The Key to Achieving an Ecological Awakening

We are talking only to ourselves. We are not talking to the rivers, we are not listening to the wind and stars. We have broken the great conversation. By breaking that conversation we have shattered the universe. All the disasters that are happening now are a consequence of that spiritual “autism." —Llewellyn Vaughan-Lee, Spiritual Ecology: The Cry of the Earth

We tend to think of ourselves as separate from nature, building cities, paving paradise, and constructing buildings that disconnect us from the natural world. However, the truth is that we are deeply connected to nature. It is essential that we start recognizing this connection if we want to have an ecological awakening and a future not just for ourselves but for many other life forms. We must have a genuine, reciprocal, and intimate relationship with the natural world. We in the Western World have grown so accustomed to this lifestyle that we rarely stop considering its environmental impact when we order from Amazon or other 24-7 online retailers. And I am preaching to myself here: Wake up! But the only way to wake up from our ecological slumber is to rejoin the dance of the natural world.

I spent many years working in a profession that aimed to save the planet, but I found myself primarily detached from our Earth. My days were spent indoors, in offices and classrooms, under the harsh glare of fluorescent lights. The disconnect between what I was teaching and how I was living made me feel uneasy and uncomfortable because it was a betrayal of my values. Although I still struggle to achieve alignment, building a deep relationship with nature is the most important thing we can do to protect the planet. We must treat nature with the same intimacy and respect that we would offer to a close friend, a lover, or a soulmate, and the Earth is all of these things and more!

The number one thing we can do to have an ecological awakening is to be in a relationship with nature. When we take the time to connect with the natural world, we begin to understand the intricate web of life that we are a part of. We begin to see how our actions impact the environment and become more aware of the changes that need to be made.

The meaning and significance of having a relationship with nature can vary significantly among individuals, as it is a deeply personal and subjective experience. For some people, it might involve venturing out into the untamed wilderness, immersing themselves in the world's natural beauty through activities like hiking, camping, or canoeing. Others may find a deep connection to nature by planting and nurturing their gardens, whether for sustenance or simply for the joy of watching things grow. Still, others may experience peace and contentment simply by taking a leisurely stroll in the park, taking in the sights and sounds of the natural world. And for those incredibly close to the Earth, their relationship with nature is all-encompassing, extending to every facet of their life and imbuing them with a profound respect for the natural world and the intricate web of life surrounding us all. Regardless of its form, a relationship with nature can be a source of great joy, inspiration, and spiritual renewal for many people.

The world is not a problem to be solved; it is a living being to which we belong. The world is part of our own self and we are a part of its suffering wholeness. Until we go to the root of our image of separateness, there can be no healing. And the deepest part of our separateness from creation lies in our forgetfulness of its sacred nature, which is also our own sacred nature. —Thích Nhất Hạnh, Spiritual Ecology: The Cry of the Earth

Regardless of how we choose to connect with nature, the important thing is that we do it. And that we bring whatever presence we can to be in it and of it. When we spend time in nature, we develop a sense of awe and wonder for the world around us. We see the beauty in a sunset, the majesty of a mountain, and the complexity of a single blade of grass. We begin to understand that every living thing has a purpose and a place in the world.

When we are in a relationship with nature, we also begin to understand the impact of our actions on the environment. We see the damage and pain that pollution, deforestation, and climate change are causing, and we are motivated to take action. We become more mindful of our consumption habits and strive to reduce our carbon footprint.

We must establish a strong relationship with nature to achieve an ecological awakening. This connection can help us understand our deep-rootedness in and to the natural world and our actions' impact on it. By connecting with nature, we can rekindle our sense of belonging to the planet, approach our surroundings with reverence, devotion and respect, and make the necessary changes to preserve the earth for future generations.

As we approach the end of the year, it's a wonderful opportunity to reflect on our habits and goals and set our New Year's resolutions. While we do so, let's also take a moment to connect with the divine energy that permeates every aspect of nature. Let's embrace the soil with reverence, feel the wind in our hair with gratitude and get to know the trees where we live with love. By prioritizing our spiritual connection with the Earth in the coming year, we can create a healthier and more harmonious world for ourselves and future generations. May our relationship with the Earth be guided by the divine light within us, beyond us and bring us closer to the source of all creation.