One With Nature

There are numerous ancient Zen koans (a short story or problem which can only be “understood”, or experienced through mediation and not by logical thought) that explore the concept of “being one” with something. Yes, this concept was also explored in the 1980 film Caddyshack, for those who never studied Zen.

Stephanie, trying to be cool 30 yards from a 600 pound Brown Bear

Bristlecone Pine near Bishop, CA

Some of these koans, such as “Stop the sound of the distant temple bell”, deal directly with the concept of “being one” – or being totally absorbed with an object or activity. In Zen, reaching this state is called Samadhi, which is being totally absorbed by what one is doing, such as a child at play.

So what does all of this have to do with nature? For me, nature, the outdoors, truly creates that feeling of Samadhi – of being totally absorbed in the beauty and tranquility of my surroundings. Pure joy. And the older I get, the more I appreciate that state.

Nature, like Zen, is an exploration of the internal, along with the external. We contemplate ourselves along with our surroundings. And through that contemplation and exploration, we find out what we are capable of, what we enjoy, what we are afraid of and, maybe, if we are persistent, what it all means.

Moose, Grand Teton Nat Park, Wyoming ©Timothy Sterling 123rf

Nature allows us to visit the other plants and animals who inhabit this world with us. From mighty Sequoias, to tiny poppies – Alaska Brown Bear to Elephant Shrew – humming birds to Condors, being one with nature means more than viewing these living things from afar. It is an existential experience – you are granted permission to, for a short time, live amongst them!

Wolves on the hunt ©Actionsports 123rf

So visit the great outdoors. There are no age restrictions and there’s no discrimination — only mountains, rivers, flowers, wild things and beauty. And if that’s not enough, ultimate enjoyment!