Love a bit of nature? Do you feel a positive connection to the natural world around you? You are probably experiencing “biophilia” according to Harvard zoologist Edward O. Wilson.
I love this word. This word sums up how great I feel every time I get out and about in the natural world. So just what is biophilia? It is defined as the tendency of humans to respond positively to nature. Edward O. Wilson didn’t just come up with the word. He has also written several books about it.
In my experience, I often find myself craving some time down at the beach, out in the forest, up on a mountain, or digging around in the garden. The closer I can get to other natural life forms, the better.
What I love about this popular pastime of mine is that for the most part it is absolutely free of charge and available to almost everyone if they are physically able to get there.
There is nothing quite like the experience of the elements on my skin, the scent of salty air, or the rich hums of my garden. And who doesn’t love to see a colourful bird, a dolphin gliding through a wave, or an echidna ambling along? If you haven’t had one of these great natural experiences lately, isn’t it time you got out there?
I’d love to hear from you. What are some of your favourite natural experiences?