The Nature Wheel

This post is inspired by accidentally camping in a lightning storm, realizing you can’t start a fire with wet wood and having no faith in the wild “blackberries” …

Our relationship to nature and the earth are vital for our wellbeing. We’ve only recently evolved out of being in daily contact with true nature. The earth was once viewed as the sacred provider for life. As society moves further away from this remembrance, problems like as nature deficit disorder are on the rise and taking a toll on our physical, spiritual, and mental health. It’s more important than ever before to take few moments to define and reestablish your connection. 

How do you define a “good” relationship with nature?

Identify your relationship with nature in the following categories. Score each category 1-5, with 5 being completely satisfied and 1 being completely dissatisfied with your relationship. Observe, notice, and discover what’s important to you. This is not a check list, choose your own values and remember that all relationships take time, attention, and energy.

• Personal Investment 

Do you voluntarily give any time, energy, or money to being in touch with nature?

• Creatures

Do you interact with animals, bugs, birds or reptiles? Do you have pets ? Do you get to interact with these creatures in their natural habitat?

• Plants

Do you interact with plants? Do you see plants in your home and at work? Do you care for your own plants? Are your plants native ? Can you identity native edibles and from poisons? Do you have a garden?

• Eating & Drinking

Do you know how to grow, harvest, or hunt? Do you know what you eat and where it comes from? Are you intentional about the way you consume animal related products ?

• Accessibility ( to nature) / Location

How easy is it for you to get to undisturbed nature? Where is your closest park?

• The Elements & Weather

Are you in a position where you’re forced to interact with the more unpleasant forms of weather? Do you know how to spot weather patterns?

• Cycles & Seasons

How often can you see stars? Do you know the direction of sunrise? How in touch are you with the cycles of the moon? Do you know if your area is at risk for flood or drought? 

• Consumption of Resources

Do you consume natural material? Do you practice sustainability? Do you use re-usable goods when possible, do you know where your energy systems come from ?

Choose just one small step you can take this week to build a healthier relationship to the natural environment.

Life Coaching for Creativity & Personal Transformation in St. Louis, Missouri