How to Connect to Ecological Belonging This Summer
This summer, let's embark on a journey of deep connection with the world around us by embracing the principles of Ecological Belonging. Whether you're immersing yourself in a captivating nature-themed book, gathering loved ones for a soulful Summer Hearth Dinner, or taking time to reflect on your personal growth and impact with a thoughtful July Reflection, there are myriad ways to foster a meaningful relationship with our environment. Join us in making this season one of conscious living and heartfelt connections.
1. Your Summer Ecological Belonging Reading List
1. The Unexpected Joy of the Squirrel Census
The article recounts the author's discovery and involvement with the Inman Park Squirrel Census in 2012, a quirky community science project in Atlanta. This story illustrates how unconventional, community-driven projects can create meaningful human connections and reshape our understanding of our environment.
2. "Why Ancient Wisdom Matters In the Modern World" from the Emerald Podcast
In this podcast episode, anthropologist and ethnobotanist Wade Davis delves into the lessons we can learn from ancient cultures that possess deep ecological knowledge and a sacred understanding of geography. This discussion highlights the importance of integrating these timeless perspectives to reshape modern views of culture and foster a profound connection to the Earth and each other.
3. Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet by Thich Nhat Hanh
"Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet" explores how mindfulness and Zen principles can foster a deep ecological belonging, encouraging readers to cultivate a harmonious relationship with the Earth. Through the practice of presence and compassion, it offers a path to both personal and planetary healing.
4. 'Remember' (a poem) by Joy Harjo
The poem "Remember" by Joy Harjo is a reflective piece that calls readers to reconnect with their origins and the interconnectedness of all life forms. It encourages remembering the natural elements—sky, stars, moon, sun, earth, plants, animals, wind—as integral parts of oneself and recognizing the lineage and histories embedded within them. This profound connection to the natural world underscores ecological belonging, emphasizing that humans are not separate from nature but deeply intertwined with it, reflecting the cycles of growth and motion inherent in the universe.
5. Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer
This book explores the interconnectedness of all living beings. Rooted in the concept of Ecological Belonging, Kimmerer emphasizes the importance of a sense of kinship and respect for the environment and how it is essential for the health and sustainability of both humans and the planet.
2. Host a Summer Hearth Dinner
One way to celebrate the warmth of summer is by hosting a Hearth Dinner!
Hearth Dinners are intentional gatherings grounded in Ecological Belonging principles. Don't worry, we have a guide that walks you through each step on how to host a Hearth Dinner and how to lead an Ecological Belonging discussion session.
Interested? Let us know.
3. Engage in July’s Ecological Belonging Newsletter Reflection Question
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hink about the places that feel like home to your heart. Maybe it's a quiet forest trail, the beach at sunset, or your favorite cozy nook at home. How do these special spots make you feel? How do they connect you to yourself and to the world around you? Reflect on how these sacred spaces help you feel grounded and at peace.
