 Revere: (verb) feel deep respect or admiration for (something) People pulling bear cubs out of a tree to take a selfie, resulting in one of the cubs being abandoned to fend for itself. Grown men dislodging ancient rock formations in a National Recreation Area. These were just two scenarios that made national headlines just days before Earth Day, 2024. A few weeks ago, millions of Federal Tax dollars were spent to “renourish” one of the popular beaches in North Carolina. Just days later, the sand that was excavated from the ocean floor and piled up on the beach was being swept back into the ocean. Dolphins who frolicked and swam in masses were nowhere to be found. While many people will celebrate Earth Day this year by planting a tree, picking up litter, or some other activity aimed at benefiting the planet, do we need to do more, and go deeper? In her book, Sacred Nature: Restoring Our Ancient Bond with the Natural World, Karen Armstrong explores how we have “ransacked nature, treating it as a mere resource, because over the last 500 years we have cultivated a worldview that is very different from that of our forebears.” Armstrong, a recognized religious historian, describes how modern-day religion has created a rift between humans and nature. She also details the role spirituality plays in creating a reverent relationship with our natural world and specific practices that can help us restore our bond. So maybe this Earth Day, we take time to pause and examine our behavior and thoughts about the natural world we share. Maybe we consider treating the plants, trees, and waterways near us as we would a dear friend. A friend we enjoy being with, a friend we support and cherish. Ready to reconnect with Mother Nature on a deeper level? Download Get In Step With Nature now to learn how a simple daily walking practice can restore and strengthen our bond with the natural world. Free for kindleunlimited subscribers!
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 Photo Credit: ©Abed Ismail "Awe is the feeling of being in the presence of something vast that transcends your current understanding of the world." -Dacher Keltner, Awe: The Science of Everyday Wonder and How it Can Transform Your Life Less than ten days ago on Easter Sunday, thousands gathered along the miles-long Wrightsville Beach in North Carolina to witness the breathtaking sunrise. Today, something very similar is happening as towns along the path of the solar eclipse prepare for crowds eager to witness the rare spectacle of the moon covering the sun in broad daylight. Spiritual leaders suggest that this unique event presents an opportunity for personal growth, as the veil between worlds opens, allowing us to release what no longer serves us and manifest our desires.  Photo Credit: © Susan Allison-Dean During the pandemic, our usual activities like concerts, shopping, and going to school or work were severely restricted. The confinement and fear of indoor spaces triggered a survival response within many of us, known as biophilia-a desire to commune with nature.
As pandemic restrictions eased, people flocked to parks - local, state, and national. By 10 am, parks were already declaring themselves "Full" or "At Capacity" on social media. Yellowstone reported soaring attendance up by 30 percent. Could the solace people found in Mother Nature during difficult times be fueling the increasing desire to immerse ourselves in the natural world? Do these remarkable events—stunning sunrises, rare cosmic phenomena, and vibrant spring blooms—have a profound impact on our minds, bodies, and souls? The science says yes. We think so too. Share your thoughts on how these recent celestial events are impacting you in the comments below. We would love to read them! Dr. Donna Gaffney is a psychotherapist, author, and nurse researcher focused on mental health. Her latest book, "Courageous Well-Being for Nurses: Strategies for Renewal" (Johns Hopkins Press), is packed with tips to boost your well-being—even if you're not a nurse. Susan Allison-Dean is a Board Certified Advanced Holistic Nurse, Writer and Cetacean advocate. Want to develop a deeper connection with nature? Check out her offerings at www.TheNatureNurse.com |
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