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The connection between spirituality and nature is profound. When we understand our place in the universe, a strong bond is formed between the two. It can lead to the following in turn
- An appreciation for things as they are - nice or ugly
- Greater awareness and presence - time, preservation, and sustainability
- A stronger understanding of our place - in the world and cosmos
Nature and The Universe
Nature is the inherent character or makeup of the ecosphere or the universe as a whole. In a broad sense, it is the laws, elements, and phenomena of life and the physical world. Nature embodies and encompasses everything, from the intricate patterns of a snowflake to dynamic geological processes and atmospheric weather patterns. For a more wholistic understanding, we can look towards the universe. This refers to existing matter and space at entirety. The Big Bang theory is the leading explanation as for how the universe began approximately 13.8 billion years ago.
Connecting with nature and the universe can help us understand ourselves and our world. We can achieve insight, guidance, and a sense of interconnectedness by tapping into the energy and wisdom of the universe. From participating in activities like nature walks, star-glazing we can connect. We can also practice grounding techniques such as feet grounding or dropping anchor.
Nature is the inherent character or makeup of the ecosphere or the universe as a whole. In a broad sense, it is the laws, elements, and phenomena of life and the physical world. Nature embodies and encompasses everything, from the intricate patterns of a snowflake to dynamic geological processes and atmospheric weather patterns. For a more wholistic understanding, we can look towards the universe. This refers to existing matter and space at entirety. The Big Bang theory is the leading explanation as for how the universe began approximately 13.8 billion years ago.
Connecting with nature and the universe can help us understand ourselves and our world. We can achieve insight, guidance, and a sense of interconnectedness by tapping into the energy and wisdom of the universe. From participating in activities like nature walks, star-glazing we can connect. We can also practice grounding techniques such as feet grounding or dropping anchor.
"When we recognize our place in an immensity of light years and in the passage of ages, when we grasp the intricacy, beauty and subtlety of life, then that soaring feeling, that sense of elation and humility combined, is surely spiritual" – Carl Sagan
— Trueblogposts (@trueblogposts) July 14, 2024
Seeking Spirituality
Spirituality is another avenue, which is a broad concept that encompasses various practices, beliefs, and experiences related to the human spirit or soul. Some may seek scientific explanations to explain awe-inspiring and everyday phenomena. Others may lean more towards religion. Faith in world religions provides a structured and tested framework. You can identify your personal experiences, emotions, and connections. As for me, I have been reading more into ancient texts and scriptures recently, putting aside preconceived ideas about supernatural entities or specific religious doctrines. Mediating also helps calm my mind and reflect on positive thoughts.
Exploring Mythology
Mythology is study of symbolic narratives commonly of unknown origin and partly traditional. These narratives may relate to real events and are especially linked to religious beliefs. Mythology gives insight into cultural and societal beliefs, origins, and values. They explore themes like good and evil, life and death, suffering, human origins, and celestial events. Myths are ostensible, they do not aim to justify themselves but are authoritative accounts of experience, not being limited by natural law or ordinary experience.
You can learn more about heroic figures who exemplify virtues and have overcome challenges. Societies have revered and celebrated these iconic figures over centuries. Classic examples of this ae tales and folklore, such as Robinhood. Aesop’s fables (written by a Greek slave) is a timeless example too.
“I believe in everything until it's disproved. So I believe in fairies, the myths, dragons. It all exists, even if it's in your mind. Who's to say that dreams and nightmares aren't as real as the here and now?” – John Lennon
— Trueblogposts (@trueblogposts) July 14, 2024
So... Is there Scientific backing?
Several theoretical questions have been put forward on nature, spirituality, and mythology. These questions are continually challenged and tested alongside empirical science for answers and explanations. It is part of the human condition to look for meaning and order in the world and spirituality can work as a navigational tool. The concept of spirituality itself is somewhat commercialized - retreats to X, Y and Z, the push for devotional pilgrimages and making large donations. I say, if we set our focus on the fundamentals, it is more within our better reach.. Go outside, listen to music or why not plant something cute?
Resources
(Article) Science, Spirituality, and Conscious Living: A Unifying Perspective
Going deeper into divisions associated with spiritual experiences (non-religious and religious, brain mechanisms involved). Findings show separate domains are not needed of the universe, spirituality, science and conscious living topic matters.
(Article) Neuroscientists must not be afraid to study religion
Researchers emphasize the need for neuroscience to explore religious and spiritual experiences. Despite their global prevalence, these aspects remain underrepresented in scientific studies. The goal is to understand the neural mechanisms underlying beliefs, rituals, and practices related to religion and spirituality.
(Paper) Spirituality of Science: Implications for Meaning, Well-Being, and Learning
Exploring the psychological benefits of scientific sources of spirituality, even for atheists and agnostics. Though it does not directly focus on nature, it highlights how science can contribute to well-being and personal meaning.
Last updated: 29/10/2024
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3 comments:
I love mythology because it gives me a space for imagination and whatifs.
Interesting and original article.
I started to travel in a van with my wife and fur children. I was never into the spiritual or mythological before but spend some time sitting in the mountains with nothing but the clear sky and you start to think a lot!
I definitely find joy in my faith in God, and agree that He shows us so much in nature! It's good for the soul!
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