[taylor.j.short]

Initial Post – Foundation One

There are so many ways to be connected to nature. I think one of the most helpful reminders is that we indeed ARE nature, and that nature is not something separate from us. That also then means if we are disconnected from nature, we are also disconnected within ourselves. To me, there are endless ways of being connected to nature. When you are more connected to nature, you are aware of subtleness of your surroundings, like the readings mentioned, knowing that the frogs aren’t croaking anymore. Noticing your surroundings – your physical location, the weather patterns. This is being deeply attuned to mother earth and her quiet magnitude of power. And this then translates to your own life and beginning to open up that tunnel vision they speak of. Being aware of yourself, of others, of your impact, of the planet. Realizing the interconnectedness of everything.
This is important to me because when I first started out, I really wanted to focus on people being more mindful with our planet and helping to be an advocate for her. What I found was, not only did I burn out incredibly fast, but people could not hear what I was saying. With the realization that the disconnection from nature also means a disconnection from self, makes complete sense.
The article, The Way of the Wilderness, was an excellent read on how to use nature to support your coaching. I pulled out a few quotes that I LOVED:
“Personal evolution then becomes like nature; instead of being a struggle, our process, uninterrupted & undisturbed, beams unfolding growth.”
“If we are willing to be still and open enough to listen, wilderness itself will teach us.”
“People have always turned to wilderness to become whole again.”
“I was sustained by all that surrounded me.”
So in theory, the connection to nature supports coaching in so many ways. Really, they go hand in hand. As coaches and guides, we get to be support alongside nature. This is explained in the Coyote’s Guide as the 50/50 rule. The wildness and uncertainty of the other unplanned 50% is what so excites me and deeply believes this is where the magic happens. I so resonated with the allowance to not have a structured agenda for half the time. We NEVER see this in the world anymore. Everything is pre-planned with an agenda before we walk in. And I absolutely love the fact that as nature-connected coaches we are embracing this concept.
Additionally, more practically, I enjoyed how they Coyote’s Guide talked a lot about a daily routine in nature and specifically the sit spot. The examples of how this has transformed so many people and their relationship to nature, and even further, life, is so inspiring. I especially loved it when referencing the work with kids. To be able to not only teach them to be quiet and mindful without distractions, but to see what they take from this and to find an affinity for this practice is so inspiring.
I know I have mentioned this before, but all of the readings and the materials we are being presented with are amazing. I feel so aligned and connected and reassured on this path. So incredibly grateful and humbled for EBI.

[taylor.j.short]

What does it mean to be soul-directed and nature-connected?

First of all, I LOVE the concept of being soul-directed and I try to get closer to this each day. For me, it means aligning myself for my highest good (mind, body, soul). It means knowing what my soul actually needs and making conscious choices each day that aligns with those needs. For example, from my own inner work, I know that I need to have a daily energy management routing in order to set myself up for the day. From that place of awareness and knowing, I then take action from that space to sit down and meditate. In simple terms, my soul tells me what it needs to be aligned and I take action on that.

For nature-connection, I am already finding that I have a lot to learn here. Originally, I believed nature-connection to be a person who lived their life truly in connection with nature. To understand that we are all inter-connected with nature and to have a deep understanding and respect for it. What I am excited to learn more about is the concept of being nature-connected while not in nature. And how we can find nature when we aren’t in it. My mind was blown a bit with this statement, and can’t wait to uncover more of how this will unfold.

[taylor.j.short]

Thanks Joshua! Makes sense – thank you! I have found and been connecting in my sit spot daily for this last week. I do like your suggestions for nature sounds if weather doesn’t permit outdoors. Will see how the weather transpires my journey. I am planning on bundling up when it’s chilly and using my gardening mat to sit on when the earth is damp/snowy. Looking forward experiencing this through the seasons. Have also decided to maintain my morning meditation practice that I do indoors as well. Looking forward to hearing everyone’s experiences!

[taylor.j.short]

Hi There! Not sure if this is the appropriate forum to ask… on figuring out my sit spot. Question – what are your tips for weather? Would love to hear how folks adapt to a daily practice with the weather changes in Colorado. I can imagine that times of challenging weather may be some of the biggest opportunities for growth, but would love any logistical tips to be prepared.

[taylor.j.short]

Hello Everyone!

I loved reading through all of your introductions! My name is Taylor and I am in love with nature. I am currently in corporate, but looking to transition to a purpose-led company of my own helping connect people back to nature. I am so looking forward to learning all the things at EBI with you all.

Thanks for the space to say hello!
Taylor

[taylor.j.short]

Josh – I loved Steven Harper’s reading SO much as well. I resonated deeply with all that he said. So agreed that nature is the healer and we are simply there to guide them. can’t wait to see what transpires for you and your business.

[taylor.j.short]

Beautiful Tracy and Daniel! I absolutely love hearing your interpretations! I couldn’t agree more with the “voice” of your soul – it is simply a deep knowing. And so appreciate the help on the nature connection. I have had many similar experiences Daniel – specifically around nature metaphors with patience/grace for me. The magic in how nature doesn’t rush, stress or hurry to grow, it just simply is and still gets all it needs to survive and thrive. I so appreciate you bringing that mention into how we can bring this into our daily lives – so helpful. Thank you.

[taylor.j.short]

Could not agree with you more Ben! I love how Michael mentioned tailoring the indicators to what you feel called to in your business. I see this the same way – almost as an initial awareness tool as well as ongoing assessment. For me, I have been thinking about working more with the four seasons – how seasons change, energy changes, closing out a season and welcoming in new, etc. I can definitely see myself using this tool with my clients at each turn of the season. Additionally, for retreats/workshops I want to focus on – using this more as a “homework” tool for them to take away. Thanks for the great question to bring it into practicality!