Is it too simplistic to assume that all this happens because I just like being outside and nature relaxes me. Or is there something else going on?

I believe that the earth is a sentient and self regulating entity, that adapts and maintains the suitable conditions for life on our planet. This process seems to happen with ease, a fluid and natural thing. Do we as human beings have the ability to tap into this phenomena, and in doing so, can we use it as a means to re balance our own natural energies, that are often out of sync?

Man has had a sacred and spiritual connection to the earth since time immemorial. Not simply because we have depended on the land to feed and sustain us. But on a much deeper and profound level. Having always had a natural affinity myself with the energies of the earth. The rocks, the trees and water sources I can understand this.

On a spiritual level, there are many places in nature where we feel the touch of the sacred. We sanctify these places as somewhere we can directly connect to the source of all things. The grand creator who formed the earth and ourselves. This in itself I believe creates a symbiotic relationship between man and nature.

The nature writer Barry Lopez, describes it in the following way. “On his evening walks while camped in the Arctic regions of Alaska, he would bow in homage to the “intense and concentrated beauty”, to the birds and animals who reveled in the freezing conditions, and “to the serene Arctic light that came over the land like breath, like breathing”. Here the outer landscape merges with the inner terrain and takes ‘our’ breath away”.

Being in wild nature engenders a sense of mystery about the world; a sense of awe or wonderment about the earth; a sense of connectedness or oneness with the natural world; a profound feeling of transcendence (within and without); a belief in a power greater than oneself; and an appreciation of the beauty in nature. It sparks feelings of inner peace, hope, joy and empowerment; promotes physical and emotional well-being, and brings about ‘significant’ changes in attitude and behaviour.

I know myself when I gaze upon a mountain range, I have a deep sense of being in the presence of something of great majesty. I feel so tiny and insignificant. My sense of self just a flash, a minute spark in the grand scheme of things. And yet, I also feel as if ‘I’ am part of the rock, an overpowering sense of kinship I can’t define. A strange paradox, to feel so insignificant and temporary and yet ancient and eternal all at the same time.

I believe, that the way in which human beings treat the earth, is a reflection of the way in which we treat ourselves. Just as when we abuse the earth and take away her natural resources without thought of consequence. Do we abuse our own bodies, putting it under tremendous pressure to perform without replenishing it.

Have you ever had a sacred or spiritual experience when out in nature? If the answer is yes, I would love to hear about it.

Humility and selfless love are the signs of an awakened spirit. Part of having an awakened spirit is the eagerness to learn, understand, and work for the well being of not only ones self but of others as well.

Pride and arrogance are not really marks of a good person to begin with and even less so in a person with an awakened spirit. The same thing goes with unconditional love. With an awakened spirit, people will begin living in harmony with both nature and other people. Compassion and love would be equal regardless of race, nationality & culture.

An awakened person, is intuitive, empathic and sees the world around them with intense clarity. Every fibre of your being is heightened and joy can be found in the simplest things. Sounds, light and movement a cacophony of delight that intoxicates the senses.

Perhaps among the more obvious signs of awakenment is having a certain level of calmness. People who have awakened spirits have proven to be more focused in attaining their goals. They seem to have reached a degree of calmness where experiences, memories, events, issues, problems, and even desires are no longer causing confusion and interruptions.

It is like, worries and self doubt can be set aside, resulting in having a clear path from the start to the finish line. And just like the song: “I can see clearly now, the rain is gone, I can see all obstacles in my way. Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind.” When this happens, you can be your true authentic self, without being blinkered by the many layers of conditioning and lack of self love that has held you back.

A zest for life for living fills you up and overspills and affects all those who come into contact with you. As they cannot help but be uplifted just by being in your life. A spiritual awakening is a blessing not only for you, but for those you love.