THIS IS THE LAST BLOG ON THE VARIETIES OF SPIRITUAL PRACTICE -

ENDING OFF WITH NATURE

We have covered the various forms of inner practice over the last several blogs including; 
Mind Meditative - Active or Passive 
Body Meditative - Active or Passive (might include Reiki or massage etc.) 
Breath or Prana 
Sound
Sensory based meditations such as gazing at a candle, using incense, drumming, dancing... 
Spirit Guide practice e.g. offerings, rituals etc. 
 Active forms that include art, writing or playing an instrument.

 Nature.

There is nothing wrong in having more than one practice especially for the Western mind that is so active and gets bored easily. Why not have a core practice but also use others that appeal to one rather than just doing the same meditation each time because of "tradition"? This is especially true for some folks who have difficulty with "sitting" like me. It is better to do a little bit of something inner directed than nothing at all.

For those interested in Wilderness Rapture there is more info. at www.davidcumes.com including a summary pdf of the book Inner Passages Outer Journeys which speaks to using nature as spiritual practice or if you like the "yoga of wild places." 

There are also two music driven, video sensory meditations.

Click on the links to highlight then view and play. 

Fire and Water

http://davidcumes.com/videos_7.html

Earth and Sky

http://davidcumes.com/videos_6.html

The Ancestors

For those interested here are some principles that have been extracted from my site regarding being "Inward Bound."

 The closer we can get to Gaia by emulating the hunter-gather archetype as much as possible, the more powerful the effect. Moreover, the greater the likelihood of rapturous experiences and tuning into nature's mystery.

When immersed in nature, and having as little between one and the wilderness as possible the following affects are commonly realized.

Being or feeling more like one’s true Self. An appreciation of awe, oneness, wonder, transcendence or peak experiences (Maslow.) Humility and a realization that any control one thinks one has over nature is an illusion. Becoming more pleasant and affable with oneself and fellow trekkers. A connection with and a sense of comfort in wilderness. A sense of renewal, and aliveness, feeling less cluttered, more mindful and focused. An appreciation of alone time. Release from bad habits or even addictions.

Before one ventures into the wild outdoors there may be a sense of uneasiness which creates the need for much preparation. There is often a sense of duality. Luther Standing Bear said; 

“It was only when the white man came that wilderness existed.” 

To the Native American there was no such duality. We, however, often feel that we are “here” and wilderness is out “there.” Finally, we enter and imperceptibly become part of nature and a sense of oneness and harmony supervenes.

The experience of "WIlderness Rapture" also may cause a “re-entry depression,” 

which can be considered a manifestation of how potent the inner effect of the journey has been. Many participants experience a sense of loss when they return home. Paradoxically this depression occurs in the face of a demonstrable restorative effect. The re-entry depression seems to be a result of having been in an altered state of consciousness and upon the return there is a dramatic shift as one is propelled back into a normal state of awareness. The severity of the depression is directly related to the inner effect of the journey coupled with the resignation that one must now return to the frustrations of ordinary life. Often the harder the home and work circumstances, the greater the depression. The seeker understands that s/he has been meditated by the power of the Creator's masterpiece. Fortunately the depression is reactive and usually only lasts about three weeks. Intensifying one's spiritual practice on return helps, as does keeping busy.

If we analyze the mystical effect of the wilderness we see these reflect some of the principles of ancient wisdom - such as; being in the present moment, unconditional positive regard for one another, suspending judgment of fellow travelers, coming closer to one’s true sense of Self and being less egocentric and more humble. The ultimate goal of these philosophies is to leave the duality of everyday existence behind and reaching a more profound state of "oneness." It is easy to appreciate a sense of the interconnectedness with all beings - still, growing, wild and talking when one has been out in nature for some time. When we allow ego to subordinate to the real Self in nature “Wilderness Rapture” often occurs. 

The following principles should be kept in mind to facilitate the  journey along with an inner intention.

An attempt should be made to keep as little between one and the wild as is feasible, bearing in mind safety and comfort. The closer we get to the Earth Mother, the more powerful the healing. Nature being feminine can help us embrace the intuitive and creative aspects of ourselves. Endurance or survival-type experiences and time restraints are best avoided with careful planning. If one is a neophyte in nature it is wise to go with a like minded, more skilled group who can support any insecurities one may have.

In addition in summary;

Click on the link to highlight then play

Indigenous_Voices_-_MP3s/05_Bushman_Bush_Mantra.mp3

Those that are interested in the phenomenal Bushman out of body Trance Dance and their chanting which facilitates the trance can also check out the short video link below. This experience is testament to the power or nature and their intimacy with Her. The Bushman do not use any mind-altering plants - only rattles around the dancers' ankles with the unique clapping and chanting of the clan!

http://davidcumes.com/videos_5.html