-- Joanna Macy in Active Hope.
Active Hope by
The challenges we face can be difficult even to think about. Climate change, the depletion of oil, economic upheaval, and mass extinction together create a planetary emergency of overwhelming proportions.Active Hope shows us how to strengthen our capacity to face this crisis so that we can respond with unexpected resilience and creative power. Drawing on decades of teaching an empowerment approach known as the Work That Reconnects, the authors guide us through a transformational process informed by mythic journeys, modern psychology, spirituality, and holistic science. This process equips us with tools to face the mess we're in and play our role in the collective transition, or Great Turning, toa life-sustaining society.
Ecotherapy by
In this thought-provoking book, Jordan and Hinds provide a comprehensive exploration of this emerging area of practice. Divided into three parts, the book offers a unique examination of a range of theoretical perspectives, unpacks the latest research and provides a wealth of illuminating practice examples, with a number of chapters dedicated to authors' own first-hand experiences of the positive psychological effects of having contact with nature. Whilst the idea of using nature to improve mental and emotional wellbeing has existed for many years, growing levels of interest in holistic, reciprocal relationships with nature have led to the development of ecotherapy as an explicit field of research. This is the much needed academically rigorous, yet engaging, introduction for Counselling and Psychotherapy students new to the subject as well as experienced professionals wanting to expand their understanding of this fast paced area of study and practice.
The Healing Magic of Forest Bathing by
As the stresses of our fast-paced, hyper-connected lives grow, more and more people are searching for a way to unplug and unwind, and many are turning to forest bathing. Forest bathing is a traditional Japanese practice of luxuriating in nature and is practiced throughout the world to increase health and restore wellbeing. But an actual forest isn't necessary to experience the power of a forest bath--a little perspective and local park or backyard is all you need. Julia Plevin offers a guide through a forest bath, from preparing for the journey and accessible activities to do while forest bathing, to incorporating the inspiring benefits of time spent in nature--a calm mind, relaxation, energy, and creativity--into the rest of your daily life. The Healing Magic of Forest Bathing provides tools to help you connect with nature and experience all of the benefits Mother Earth is waiting to give you.
The Nature Fix by
For centuries, poets and philosophers extolled the benefits of a walk in the woods: Beethoven drew inspiration from rocks and trees; Wordsworth composed while walking over the heath; Nikola Tesla conceived the electric motor while visiting a park. From forest paths in Korea to islands in Finland to eucalyptus groves in California, Florence Williams investigates the science at the confluence of environment, mood, health and creativity. Delving into new research, she uncovers the powers of the natural world to improve health, promote reflection and innovation, and strengthen our relationships. As our lives shift indoors, these ideas--and the answers they yield--are more urgent than ever.
The Nature Principle by
For many of us, thinking about the future conjures up images of Cormac McCarthy's The Road: a post-apocalyptic dystopia stripped of nature. Richard Louv, author of the landmark bestseller Last Child in the Woods, urges us to change our vision of the future, suggesting that if we reconceive environmentalism and sustainability, they will evolve into a larger movement that will touch every part of society. This New Nature Movement taps into the restorative powers of the natural world to boost mental acuity and creativity; promote health and wellness; build smarter and more sustainable businesses, communities, and economies; and ultimately strengthen human bonds. Supported by groundbreaking research, anecdotal evidence, and compelling personal stories, Louv offers renewed optimism while challenging us to rethink the way we live. Richard Louv's new book, Our Wild Calling, is available now.
Hope Matters by
"This book comes at just the right moment. It is NOT too late if we get together and take action, NOW." --Jane Goodall Fears about climate change are fueling an epidemic of despair across the world: adults worry about their children's future; thirty-somethings question whether they should have kids or not; and many young people honestly believe they have no future at all. In the face of extreme eco-anxiety, scholar and award-winning author Elin Kelsey argues that our hopelessness--while an understandable reaction--is hampering our ability to address the very real problems we face. Kelsey offers a powerful solution: hope itself. Hope Matters boldly breaks through the narrative of doom and gloom to show why evidence-based hope, not fear, is our most powerful tool for change. Kelsey shares real-life examples of positive climate news that reveal the power of our mindsets to shape reality, the resilience of nature, and the transformative possibilities of individual and collective action. And she demonstrates how we can build on positive trends to work toward a sustainable and just future, before it's too late. Praise for Hope Matters "Whether you consider yourself a passionate ally of nature, a busy bystander, or anything in between, this book will uplift your spirits, helping you find hope in the face of climate crisis." --Veronica Joyce Lin, North American Association for Environmental Education "30 Under 30" "A tonic in hard times." --Claudia Dreyguis, author of Scientific Conversations: Interviews on Science from the New York Times "Beautifully written and an effective antidote against apathy and inaction." --Christof Mauch, Director, Rachel Carson Center for the Environment and Society Published in Partnership with the David Suzuki Institute.
