This volume is part of a new series of books published in honor of Findhorn, the community in Scotland that pioneered new age spirituality. As the jacket to this paperback puts it: "The name still evokes a sense of adventure into a totally new world of community, cooperating with nature kingdoms and bringing spirit into our daily lives. Forty years on, the adventure continues in a multi-faceted community where spirituality is alive and vibrant in many different forms. The aim of the 'Findhorn Book' series is to offer a serious and practical introduction to some of the qualities that make Findhorn a center of light and hope."

John R. Stowe lives in Atlanta, Georgia. He is a writer and workshop leader and the author of Earth Spirit Warrior. In this practical and salutary work, he outlines a smorgasbord of experiences designed to help people establish a deeper and more meaningful connection with the natural world. He is absolutely correct when he notes that "we live in a time of unprecedented dis-connection, when the mainstream of society seems to have forgotten that we depend on the integrity of the living systems around us for our own existence." Instead, many people still view nature as nothing more than a playground or a stockpile of resources that can be used indiscriminately. We still have so much to learn from indigenous cultures who have a communal relationship with trees, streams, animals and sacred places.

Stowe evidences a reverential attitude toward nature. He suggests ways for us to live more simply, cut out distractions, and to listen to the different environments around us. Even in the city, we can make this essential connection during moments in a park and by keeping gardens in our homes. Describing a "a beauty walk" in nature, he writes: "As you set out, ask yourself to focus on 'beauty.' Ask your eyes, ears, all your senses to show you the beauty in this place; then just walk. As you do, repeat this request over and over in your mind: 'Show me the beauty. Show me the beauty.' Then, see what you notice."

Those who enjoy trees as much as we do will be intrigued to try some of exercises he suggests for relating to a tree. This primer on connecting with nature has just the right mix of material on ecology, ideas for making changes in your life, and helpful and healing exercises to give you a deeper experience of the outdoors.

Try a Spiritual Practice on Imagination