EXAMPLE OF A GUIDED WALK EXPERIENCE
Mindfully tune into nature with ecopsychology practices, including following natural attractions and exploring of our 54 natural senses and sensitivities
On a guided walk, we follow a basic ecopsychology framework. A participants intention is considered in the methodology used. We may incorporate Eco-Art therapy as a creative expression element or add as requested.
I guide through the walk using the Natural Systems Thinking Process (NSTP) method and prompt with guiding questions related to the intent when appropriate.
In this example, I gained permission to record the participant on my phone to transcribe later so as not to detract from sharing this experience. Also when I am deeply present I often have very little recollection of the events and it is useful to reflect a little with particpants.
With strong welcoming consent, we began our walk around the lake following natural attractions.
After some time, I asked her to follow a strong attraction and a gorgeous willow tree called to her.
I softly read out the list of 54 senses and she responded if one registered within or surrounding her.
During the list of senses I noticed her stance with the tree, she reflected its leaning in with her body. She noted all the usual 5 senses as being “a given.” Other responses she communicated to me included; “Feeling comfortable, the energy coming up from the earth, strong, pulled into the tree and aliveness… Peace tranquillity, trust, gratitude,” this tree was “an old mate.” From this exercise she identified multiple senses which to me was an indication that she was most likely in a deeply present state, riding the crest of the Greenwave. “Mother Nature has it perfect, we shouldn’t interfere” She also noted that she “will be dust and this tree will be long here… Time stands still… peaceful…”
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