Nature Heals

During this time where we can’t turn to each other as easily to support us in our grief process, we can make it a habit of turning to nature for healing and renewal.

The natural world gives to us as we move through it. It engages our curiosity, draws our attention to details, transmits a sense of peace, a healthy regard for danger, offers us metaphors, invigorates our breathing, or takes our breath away.

Moving through a complex natural environment gives our grief arms and legs, eyes and ears to feel, process, and integrate.

you do not have to change,

you do not have to "get over it."

The world is here and so are you.

Find a place outside to take a walk

Many parks and nature areas are closed right now, but we can still connect with nature closer to home. Check out this Washington Trails Association article on Hiking in the Time of Coronavirus.

This could be a walk around your yard or your neighborhood, or through a park nearby. Find a place that is new, or one that is familiar.

Make sure you have what you need to be safe and well.

Water, snacks, and appropriate clothing/gear for the weather.

you are welcome here,

your grief is welcome here

What to do on your walk

You might take quiet, contemplative time to notice sensory information.

What do you hear?

What do you smell?

What do you see?

Can you find:

Four things that are alive

Three things that are dead,

Two things that are transforming

One thing you know is true.

Notice the many shades of green.

Grief too has many shades and aspects to it.

What different qualities does your grief have?

You might reflect on the following questions:

Who are you carrying with you today?

What is a favorite memory of them?

What do you miss about them?

What would they have appreciated about this walk?

Land Acknowledgement

At Wild Grief, we believe it is important to acknowledge the indigenous people who lived and may continue to live wherever we are taking a walk or hike.

For thousands of years, this land was loved and cared for by the ancestors of these people.

On your walk, please take a moment to remember these original stewards and consider their descendants among us who still struggle with the loss, pain and grief caused by colonization.

We invite you to learn whose land you are on and reflect on how you can contribute to the struggle for indigenous rights and sovereignty today.

Learn more about land acknowledgements and to find out whose land you are on.