isMind and nature are inseparable. The natural world is not outside of us or separate from us, but it us. Ecopsychology is an exciting emerging perspective that explores the connection between psychological and ecological health. Many of our psychological ills and our addictions are directly related to our lack of awareness and our perceived disconnection from our natural origins. The very destruction of our habitat is an expression of this lack of connection to the ground of our being. There are many emerging approaches to deal with this, such as the greening of playgrounds, nature-based therapy, architecture that aims to connect us with a healthy habitat, and the exploration of our assumptions.
We will explore the historical and cultural influences underlying and leading up to this perceived separation from nature, cultural differences in perspectives, assumptions in psychology, the connections between pathology and this perceived separateness from nature, and the role of connectedness with nature in child development.
We will also explore the role of innovation, creativity and Active Hope in ecopsychological healing.
Students will review the literature, engage in experiential activities and projects, and brainstorm solutions.
Various videos will be provided, in addition to the reading material, for students to review and reflect on.
SPECIFIC GOALS:
- To allow students to gain a deepening understanding of historical and cultural influences on our perceptions of our place in the ecology.
- To gain a deepening understanding of the impact of our perceptions, beliefs and cosmologies on the ecology and our psychological wellness.
- To explore personal change and transformation.
- To explore the “Three Stories of Our Times”: Business as Usual; The Great Unraveling; The Great Turning.
- To examine the role and relevance of Ecopsychology in psychological health.
- To examine the role of psychological health and Active Hope in planetary transformation