Ecologist and psychotherapist Julie Walker has led a number of nature-based retreats at Othona and elsewhere. This week she offers a particular focus on discovering the ways in which the rhythms and living presence in Nature can touch our souls, inspire our hearts and help connect us to a deeper wisdom within ourselves. Julie will offer some simple practices that can engage us with the natural world in greater depth and with greater presence.
There is a long history within many spiritual traditions of drawing on a wisdom from within Nature, whether it is understood as coming from a Higher Being or from Nature itself. Traditionally, journeying into the ‘wilderness’ has been not only a physical challenge but also a personal journey into self-awareness and spiritual insight.
Current research is again emphasizing the importance to our mental and physical well-being of spending time in Nature. Listening to the heartbeat of Mother Earth grounds us and helps to remember that the natural world is the ever present context of our lives; that our evolutionary and our personal histories are inextricably entwined with the Earth. However, we don’t have to have access to vast areas of wilderness in order to experience this. Tuning-in to Nature is more about the quality of our attention and our openness to receive.
- Each day beginning and ending in chapel with quiet reflection, readings, music and poetry from some of those who have found wisdom and inspiration in Nature.
- Guided opportunity outdoors each morning to individually explore different ways of relating to and being with Nature.
- Opportunity to reflect together on your experience.
- Plenty of time to yourself, as well as in supportive community.
- Delicious meals, some shared in silence.
- Cosy library and art room facilities also available.