Finding nature in the middle of the built world
One of the aspects of druidry is a connection to the natural world. As a city dweller, that can be very hard to accomplish.
Now, I’m about as horticulturally blessed as Monsanto. I have never been able to keep a plant alive in my space, so I have to find that connection with naturally growing plants around me.
I’m lucky enough to have a couple of things. I live on a courtyard in my building. There are trees, plants, and animals in our courtyard, and I have giant windows overlooking the courtyard. My altar/meditation “nook” faces out to it, so I get a constant view of nature from my living space.
Additionally, there are people in our building who love to garden and do a nice job of keeping a small community garden. During the summer, it’s filled with lovely herbs so I’m never without rosemary, basil, and mint. I love to go up there and harvest a little to add into whatever I’m cooking. Caprese was a staple this past summer.
Both of these things allow me to stay connected to nature while still living in the built world.
If you don’t have direct access like I do, here are some other ways you can stay connected:
- Morning strolls in a neighborhood – Go out early so you can wake up with the world
- Parks – Go to a park and walk barefoot in the grass, but watch out for pet messes.
- Nude Beach – Most cities that are near any kind of water will have a nude beach. Being naked in nature is one of the purest ways to connect to the natural world
- Build a terrarium – This is a bit of work, but it allows you to cultivate a balance of nature in your own space. If you have the space and money, it’s a good, low-maintenance way to bring nature to you.
- Earthy Essential Oils – My favorites are Frankincense and Cloves, or burn some Palo Santo.
These are just some of the simple ways to have that connection every day.
Do you have a favorite way? Leave a comment to share with us.