ABSTRACT

This chapter investigates the role of encounter in enabling people to change their conditioned experiencing of the world. Offering methods which encourage observation, it suggests use of photography, writing, solitary retreat and gardening, and describes Miles Richardson's practice of recording 'three good things in nature'. The chapter offers practical guidance for these activities, including advice on safety considerations. It also explores the role of healthy encounter with impermanence and death in nature as a route to psychological wellbeing. Photography and writing exercises bring attention to details of the natural world. People can use these exercises to connect with nature in urban localities on a regular basis. Journaling and other writing tasks also provide valuable therapeutic tools. Recording experiences and perceptions, people tend to observe things more closely. Solitary experiences, like initiations or vision quests, can form part of a spiritual or shamanic practice. The period of preparation is important to the depth and outcome of solitary experiences.