Nature Can Be Our Salvation

 

In the words of Edward Abbey…I am not an atheist, I am an Earthiest!

Earthiests are people who literally need to plug into the planet to recharge. Whether sitting on a rock warmed by the sun, or face planted down on the sand at the beach, standing on a mountain top arms spread with palms up to gather energy, or resting against a tree, I am gathering energy from the earth.

 Some people think nothing is happening when they are sitting still because their minds are too busy to feel anything. But, they are receiving nature’s gift just the same.  An earthiest consciously makes themselves more receptive to the bounty by quieting their minds and will not miss an opportunity to plug into the universal gas pump.        

None of this is new. The Navajo strive to achieve a harmony and balance within themselves and their society in nature to a state they call Hozho. Ancient Hawaiians lifted their fingertips to the sky in hula in an attempt to pull mana or spiritual energy into their being. They received power from Moana the grand and vibrant sea and believe they are stewards of the land. The act of lying on the forest floor in order to absorb the energy of the earth and the trees called “Forest Bathing” is now popular in Japan. Moderns are practicing “Earthing” that is walking barefoot to re-balance with natural forces to counter act eltro-magnetic fields we are all exposed to.

I find sustenance and solace in nature. My daily walks are a meditation that allows my mind to relax and wander freely. I don’t wear earbuds I leave distraction from my thoughts behind. I want to hear the sounds of the birds twittering and the wind whispering through the trees. I want to let thoughts bubble up from the well of my subconscious. I want to digest all the input I receive each day. My overstimulated molecules settle into place and I find answers to my questions in my writing and in life this way.

Yes, I believe nature can be our salvation. It is for me.

Adventure travel writer, Linda Ballou’s articles have appeared in Real Travel Adventures, Travel World, Go World and numerous other national magazines. She is the adventure travel expert on the National Association of Baby Boomer Women.  Her new-adult novel The Cowgirl Jumped Over the Moon was a finalist at the Equus Film Fest. She continues to enjoy great trips around the globe! Learn more about her travels at www.LostAngelAdventures.com and her novels at www.LindaBallouAuthor.com