Section 2:

Connections with
Nature
This section discusses the natural
affinity people have with nature and
similar constructs, the factors that
contribute to such connections, how these
relations to nature are manifested, and
how they can be enhanced in the context
of one’s spirituality.
The Self and the Natural Environment

 The spiritual self is not only tied in one’s

connection with a higher being and other
people; it is also related to how people
relate to nature.
 ForChristians, for instance, it is stated in
the Bible, “we are appointed as stewards of
God’s creation” and this implies one’s
responsibility to take care of the nature
and the world, in general.
Religion aside, a significant number of
people have a serious commitment to nature
by taking care of animals, pledging advocacy
for environmental issues, and practicing
daily behaviors that manifest a growing
concerns for the world. This are embodied
in the concepts of affinity with nature and
ecopsychology.
Affinity with Nature and
Ecopsychology
 Affinitywith nature can be defined as the ties the
bind people and nature together.
 Italso can be mean nature connectedness, defined
as the extent to which individuals include nature as
part of their identity.
 Anindividual with strong affinity with nature feels
that his or her identity is tied to his or her natural
environment, genuinely cares for the environment,
and commits to taking care if it.
This is also linked to pro environmental human
actions wich showcase between rooted to
caring and protecting one’ surrounding.
Ecopsychology shares many similarities with
concept of having affinity with nature.
It is concerned with the fundamental
interconnections between humans and the
natural world through a phenomenological and
sensorial link, and integrations of practices
based on the notion that direct contact with
the natural world has healing potential.
 Affinity with nature highlights the
emotional connection with nature, anchored
on positive effective experiences and
authentic love for nature.
 However, ecopsychology is based on a
transpersonal and philosophical relationship
with nature, highlighting beliefs and
practices that promote and enhance
ecological, personal, and community
sustianability.
How can affinity with nature and
ecopsychology be developed?
 Just like other aspects of the self, these are brought
about by experiences with nature and observations
about the environment. Parental behaviors accounts
for much of one’s beliefs about nature and
environment.
 For example, having pets in the house and inculcating
the responsibility of taking care of them cam lead to
the love for animals which, in the long run, can result
in advocacies against animal cruelty, on the grounds
that they are living creatures and deserve gentleness
and respect.
 Inschools, certain programs are embedded within
their curricula that provide exposure to nature and
the environment, such as community service
programs, outreach activities, camping trips, and
school club activities that orient students to
become environmentally conscious (i.e.,
mountaineering, boy scouts, girls scouts
organizations).
 These can shape the value orientations and
behaviors of the individuals especially at a young,
impressionable age that they can sustain as they get
older.
How are connections with nature
established and improved?
 First, it is not enough that one simply conforms to what
society says about taking care of the environment.
 Research has shown that personal standpoints (such as
the locus of control, self-construal, spirituality, values,
identity) have a strong relationship to one’s affinity with
nature and ecopsychology. Developing an open mina and
adopting philosophical perspective that advocates for
environmental protection and sustainability is important.
 Taking care of the environment requires behaviors to be
aligned to achieve this goal.
 Second, the emergence of technology has hampered
people’s engagement with outside activities.
 While in the past, children can be seen playing
outside and engaging in nature-bound activities,
many children today are now seen glued to their
electronic gadgets, surfing the internet, or
watching TV. This activities have weakened the
human nature connection.
 Thus, there is no need to reconnect by lessening
dependence on technology and to literally “smell the
rose.” it is important to go out, explore the world,
immerse oneself in the beauty of nature, and foster
ecologically health lifestyles.
 Lastly,
while not all people are meant for being active
environmental advocates, incremental behaviors
toward protecting the environment can go a long way.
 Disposing of and segregating garbage properly,
avoiding plastic use and other non-biodegradable
materials, and taking care of pets can be some of the
ways by which one’s unity with nature is showcased.
 Intaking care of nature, an individual also take care
of himself or herself, thus contributing to optimal,
healthy development.