Experiences that led to the
Natural Systems Thinking Process
Dear Visitor,
Welcome to the Origins Trail, a hands-on, self-discovery
experience.
Over one hundred and fifty years ago, in search
of unity, peace and spirit, Walt Whitman discovered: "We are Nature,
long have we been absent, but now we return."
Today, in backyards, parks or backcounty, Project
NatureConnect's newly researched Natural Systems Thinking Process psychologically
makes the benefits of return possible. In this process, sensory, nature
reconnecting activities tangibly enable people to make conscious contact
with creation in natural areas. People genuinely register the great circle
of life in their thinking. They build unity and wellness through
its guidance, wisdom and balance.
An example:
"Each night at sundown the"gaining consent activity"
helped me become aware of my attraction to the crescent moon as it hung
over the two mountains. Its mellow glow, framed by peaks and trees, embraced
me in a wordless, ancient primordial scene. Timeless power, peace and unity
swept me up. I just wanted to stay in that state of awe, I felt in balance
with all of reality. I was simply "BEING." No tension, no pressing
goal, just truly belonging to the global community.
This natural energy captured my stress laden pulse, it seduced it to
the rhythms of Earth. The sleeping disorder I have battled all my life
dissolved in this power. For the first time in decades, I gently fell asleep
after dark and arose shortly after dawn. I celebrated the breakthrough
and I thanked nature. I thanked the activity, too, for whenever I choose,
it empowers me to again benefit from its connection."
The key experiences that produced the Natural Systems Thinking Process
took place over a 60 year span between the years of 1935-1994. The Process
results from critically examining my first 25 years "indoors"
through the eyes of my following 35 years living,
learning and researching in natural areas across North America.
The best way to do this trail is with one or more partners locally,
or online via email to the natureconnect
list. I hope you enjoy doing it as much as
I have while designing and living it.
Owls and Howls,
Michael J. Cohen, Ed.D.
