Conclusion
How we perceive nature is critical to advancing the societal understanding, stewardship, and restoration of the ecosystems that we depend upon. This chapter has presented the dominant ideologies that form our view of nature, land ownership, and power dynamics and challenges us to deconstruct traditional Western views of nature. We present Indigenous views and knowledge of nature, which recognize that nature holds intrinsic value fundamental to life. The literature suggests overwhelming evidence of the positive mental and physical health benefits of time spent in nature. Collectively we must reengage respectfully with the natural systems that ultimately sustain us.
This week, we encourage the reader to prioritize spending time in a natural space they love, either themselves or with family or friends. Walk, sit on the ground, be quiet, listen, take a deep breath, look around and then close your eyes for a moment. Use this time and space to reflect on your connection to the Earth under your feet. Honour the emotions you feel, whether it is deep peace or eco-anxiety. Reflect on your gratitude for the Earth, your dependent relationship with the air you breathe, the water you drink, the land you work, live and play on, and the interconnectedness between us all. And most importantly, keep coming back to this place or begin to explore further afield in search of the many wonders of nature.
