In our connected world, what has happened to our connection to the natural world?

It came out of the blue, one day, a lust for exploring, observing and absorbing nature. The next, the entire family can sit in the same space with a lack of contemplation of the moment, plugged into our hyper-connectivity. I unfortunately plead guilty in this matter as well.

Although there is incredible supporting data & well intentioned planning in experiencing rigorous recreation & nature experiences, I currently witness, and personally struggle with: true connections with nature. The more my students and I become more and more technological enthusiasts it seems, the less we seek and experience pure joy in the outdoors.

Our minds and bodies truly need a significant connection to the natural world. Take for example the 'Solitude Spots' once a week during our science classes. Each student goes off to be alone in the natural world. The idea is that they might see and experience things they have have never seen before thus, providing a rich first hand experience.

Sound simple? Not these days, I increasingly am having to sell this on the students, a by-product of our amazing and powerful devices that connect us to the world, but dare I say deprive us of first hand experience with our natural one. I observe the majority of students, extremely uncomfortable (in their own way) with the foreign concept of sensory exploration in nature. This is only a tiny example of the major issue of impulsive regulation the past few years. 

Close to decade ago, Richard Louv began a current conversation on this issue. He stands out with the fact he has accumulated incredible data to support one key point: our relationship with the natural world. He recently released the most comprehensive list of where everyone can begin/continue/rethink their connections.  

As a teacher I thrive on creating joyous experiences deepening students (grades 4-9) feelings for the natural world. I am a student of Earth Education, (30 years before Richard Louv's publications) a critical movement that develops programs claiming: "The environmental movement has been led astray, trivialized by mainstream education and diluted by other agendas".

There are many of us that care for the natural and cultural world we share, but lack an organizing structure which prevents us from realizing our full potential as a servant of something larger. As Steve Van Matre of the Institute of Earth Education recently stated: "We bounce around, attracted to the latest buzz, but then cannot figure out what to do with it other than passing it along to other leaders. We become perpetual sharers rather than purposeful doers."

 For true modelling I continue to murmur every other day:

"Walk your Talk"

I'll keep you posted as I continue my research on the impact of true outdoor experiences on both my students and myself.