nature knows + nurtures
…if you go off into a far, far forest and get very quite, you’ll come to understand that you’re connected with everything.
Alan Watts
Similar to the way in which celebrating love is not limited to Valentine’s Day, Earth Day can certainly be celebrated every morning we wake up in acknowledgement and appreciation for the oxygen, shelter, clothing, nourishment, and all materials provided for us by our global home.
I also understand how the thought of glaciers melting, ecosystems in danger, and tons of plastic damaging our oceans can make the concept of trying to save the planet seem a tad daunting.
I want to assure us all, however, that we have the power to make small yet significant changes. It may seem like we’re not doing much, but the act of making the effort in and of itself creates a ripple effect of energy that inspires others, and ultimately radiates love.
One of my yoga teachers once asked us to imagine the monks in far off temples who wake up every day to pray for peace: they aren’t on social media announcing what they’re doing, they’re simply sending love from their hearts into the hearts of others, no matter who and where they are, no matter the outcome or reward. They tend to their living spaces and gardens the same way they tend to their bodies and minds: with awareness and compassion.
Think of the ways in which we energetically feel and respond to acts of love — an openness, calmness, excitement, ease, feeling of deep belonging, butterflies, space, relief. Just as a plant grows beautifully when we water it, we as humans flourish by these profound [scientifically proven!] energetic heartfelt actions.
My recent trip to Iceland was a reminder of how epic natural beauty attracts tourists from around the world to witness its magnificence, only to continue to propel eco-unconsciousness with the production of synthetic, waste-inducing merchandise. Although some of it it locally made and sourced – of which some proceeds might benefit the land or related organizations – it is easy to snap a pic and carry on as we normally do.
So what happens after the social media photo ops? Do us onlookers go home with greater appreciation for the planet and make more mindful choices, or do we go back to our ways without regard for the aliveness that exists and depends on and nurtures us – the experience now a distant memory floating somewhere in the Cloud matrix?
Although I know that I am one of many who contribute to CO2 emissions by taking plane flights and consuming gasoline, I am also committed to deepening my connection to and understanding of planet earth, it’s people and species.
I have no intention of self-righteously preaching, but am interested in using this online space as a platform to create awareness in which all of us can learn how to better care of our Selves, each other, and our Mama Nature.
My hope in discovering more about Earth and how to infuse it’s ancient wisdom into our modern lifestyles is to be of better service to you: to share insight from cultures and places and our greatest teacher Professor Planet in ways that help us all see the greater connection between all beings so that we may live happier and healthier – perhaps even with a bit more peace.
And so I invite us all to do what we can for our planet in ways that feel sustainable to us on a daily basis; to treat it the same way we would want to be treated; to offer deep appreciation for all it does for us [which is literally everything]; to let that loving energy flow internally through our own hearts and outwardly to wherever or whomever else we envision it permeating.
No small act goes unnoticed, and little things can make a big impact not only for the planet but also within our Selves – maybe even our children, partner, friend, or community. There’s no harm in trying.
What one shift or commitment can you do or make today to help nourish the place that provides us with all we need to survive and thrive?
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Photo: Bjarnarfoss, Snaefellsness, Iceland.
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