Is mindfulness in nature the key for a more sustainable society?

Is mindfulness in nature the key for a more sustainable society?

Compared to 50 years ago, or even 15, or perhaps even 5, quality of life kept improving. This is what the numbers say (which numbers). Life expectancy roared, particularly in high income countries, as GDP did. But are we happier? In other words, is this quantitative assessment indicating an overall qualitative thirvin? it has come at a cost. People feeling chronic stress, anxiety, depression, burnout, sleep deprivation etc. are at almost epidemic levels.  While we have increased our creature comforts, this has not led to a greater state of happiness.

Many people in today’s world are constantly connected (computers, smart phones etc.).  Not only leading to a constant need for stimulation and up-dates; but essentially has created a civilization of people suffering from attention deficit disorder.  

Insert element of intellectualizing nature as opposed to feeling it, experiencing it etc…

Learning to tune into the healing tonic of nature:  The slow pace and subtle beauty of nature offers a natural healing tonic for the afflictions of civilization (and our devices).  We tune into our senses, and reside in our bodies and minds in a peaceful, mindful state.  

However, many people find being in nature boring.  Residing in cities, constant connection with the internet and 24 hour news cycle, and other forms of constant stimulation means that many people’s encounter with nature brings feelings of boredom and unease.  

This is where mindfulness comes in.  Having its roots in Buddhist meditation/philosophy, mindfulness means “paying attention, with moment-moment awareness, non-judgmentally.”  When we enter nature in a mindful state, we stay open to our senses, thoughts and emotions.  We do not react, but simply watch and observe our mind, with an open-minded curousity.

We come to peace with any uncomfortable states of being, and move into a state of tranquility.  And we connect with the immense healing power of nature- not in an intellectual way, but a visceral somatic experience.  

Our series of mindfulness practices (formal mindfulness meditations and informal nature exercises) leads one systematically to a deeper sense of appreciation and ease as we combine the two most powerful modalities for improving psychological well-being (the healing power of nature and the power of awareness that comes from mindfulness practice).

Only then, can we think about creating positive change for the environment.  We can only change that which we truly love, and feel connected to.