Nature and Spiritual Practice

Spirituality in nature is implied, but not directly addressed. Nature has replaced the craving for a spirit presence greater than the self. Nature envelops and includes, while a named almighty being (God, Jesus, Zeus, Allah) is defined and apart from humans.

Nature is personal yet all inclusive. Could the perception of a god be valid? Because of the centuries of oppressive definition and lack of sensual participation, that god entity lacks impact. Nature, though, is always, everywhere and constantly tangible. In Nature we trust.

Find god in the details.  Write from the heart and soul-mind.

Websites on Nature

Selected Opportunities and Resources for Nature Writers

Nature in Legend and Story (NILAS) is a non-profit, tax-exempt organization, devoted to exploration of relationships between human beings and the natural world, reflected in folklore, literature and other cultural activities with spiritual focus.

The Nature Web from Nature Magazine.

EPA Grants - public environmental education.


Association for the Study of Literature and Environment (ASLE) 
promotes the exchange of ideas and information about literature that considers human relationships with the natural world.


Forums on nature and birdwatching topics

For freelance writers:  Links to writer’s guidelines for nature related periodicals.

Environmental Issues and Nature Writing :: Self Directed Study

Web resources on Nature Writing  -- study on your own with a syllabus and course materials compiled by top universities.

MIT -- Massachusetts Institute of Technology -- offers a free online course Writing About Nature and Environmental Issues. 

The University of Indiana, Bloomington offers a study guide and resources on nature writing.

We are Not Weeds

New York Times book review  reminds us that weeds are necessary.  Some offer excellent nutrition  -- elderberry, dandelion, young polk leaves.

Snowmageddon Maryland February 2010

Environmental Movement in China

Photos from China--

Gulangyu Island

where cars are not permitted ......

and Shanghai, where cars rule.

China's Emerging Environmental Movement - Environment 360

Nature Writing Exercise

A few thoughts to start your thoughts about your relationship with nature and the natural world:

What is your first memory of nature or the outdoors?

What is the role of the writer in observing and reporting about the natural world?

Do you think a nature or outdoors writer has a role as a spiritual caretaker for the earth and the universe?

Does the writer or artist have a responsibility for nature beyond that of the scientist?

Describe the intersection of creativity and responsibility.

Does a nature writer need to maintain the same exacting standards of truth as a scientist?