When most people hear about our family nature experiences, they think of nature walks. Nature walks are usually casual, guided tours focusing on observing nature, identifying plants and animals, and providing information about the local ecosystem. In contrast, our programs are more about developing a profound awareness and relationship with the living, natural world, and how we are intricately and inextricably connected with it in every moment. It’s more about awe, connection, and interaction with nature, which is our birthright —and intrinsic to our own, human nature.
The “Family Nature Retreats” experience subtly and playfully integrates principles of Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB) and the connection potential of the human nervous system, leading to healthier functioning of individuals, and individuals as a part of larger systems such as families and the larger community. We posit (with considerable evidence) that healthier individuals and families tend to more easily and effectively generate and preserve wealth in all its forms.
1. Holistic Philosophical Approach: While our retreats emphasize deep connections with nature, community building, mentoring, and personal growth, they also gently incorporate IPNB principles. Our approach relies on the fact that our interactions with nature subtly influence our mental and emotional well-being through experiences and neurological processes.
2. Mentoring and Storytelling: In addition to experienced guides sharing stories and wisdom, this aspect aligns with how narrative and social connections can shape our brain’s development through discovery and creativity. These elements contribute to emotional resilience, and they are a part of a broader, deeply fulfilling experience.
3. Sensory Awareness and Mindfulness: Participants are encouraged to engage all their senses and practice mindfulness. This not only deepens our connection with nature but also aligns with the idea of neural integration and emotional health. These practices are a part of our holistic approach to experiencing nature.
4. Cultural and Community Connection: The retreats’ focus on cultural practices and community building subtly supports the neuroplasticity of the brain as a social organ. Diverse social interactions contribute to our neural architecture, enhancing our emotional and cognitive experiences in a communal setting.
5. Personal and Community Development: The retreats foster a sense of belonging and purpose, aligning with the notion that community engagement and personal development are beneficial for our emotional and neurological health. However, this aspect is woven seamlessly into the broader goals of personal resilience, resourcefulness, and intrinsic ethical values.
6. Deep Nature Connection: The retreats aim to foster a deep awareness and connection with living nature. This connection also offers a means to achieve a sense of balance and harmony, resonating with the concept of interconnectedness in IPNB, though this is presented as a natural part of the experience rather than a primary focus or didactic teaching.
7. Long-term Engagement: The model’s emphasis on long-term engagement with nature aligns with the concept of ongoing neural development and plasticity. This aspect is integrated to suggest that sustained nature interactions can have a positive, though subtle, impact on our brain’s evolution.
8. Integration of Traditional Knowledge: Incorporating traditional ecological knowledge, the retreats offer a holistic understanding of nature. The integration of this wisdom complements the neurological benefits, providing a newfound perspective on our relationship with the natural world.
In summary, the Family Nature Retreats experience integrates neurological insights as a supporting theme, enriching our connection with nature, personal growth, and community engagement. This approach offers a nuanced and holistic engagement with the natural world, subtly influenced by the natural functioning of the human nervous system.