Getting Started with Nature Connection

Welcome to “Getting Started With Nature Connection!”

Please take the time to watch the introduction video above and read through the details on this page so you know how to get the most out of this course.  Scroll down to the bottom of the page to see and access the course curriculum.

Course Overview

Nature Connection is a state of mind

Our busy lives can cause us to become insulated and disconnected from our environment. We can find ourselves lost in thoughts about the past or future, or focused on what’s right in front of us, rather than aware of what is happening, now, around us. Nature, and our connection to our environment slips way into the background and becomes unnoticed. This tunneled focus can result in anxiety, reactivity, and a myopic approach to life and work.

Bringing nature more into the foreground of your awareness shifts your attention to present moment. It quiets the mental chatter and triggers your curiosity. This has an immediate, relaxing, and grounding effect on your nervous system, and a positive long-term effect on your sense of well-being, your relationships with others, and the Earth.

The goal is a balanced experience – where we are attentive to what we are doing in that moment, while also aware and curious about what is happening around us.

These simple practices will have long lasting effect

Each module offers a different tool to practice. The combination of them all will get you started on the path to nature connection.  If you dedicate yourself to practicing these skills, they will start making a difference in your life.   

Jon Young, talks about the Eight Indicators of someone who is becoming more nature connected.  As you dedicate the time to practicing these skills, you may notice these indicators more in your life:

Quiet Mind, Common Sense, Aliveness and Agility, Inquisitive Focus, Caring and Tending, Service to the Community, Awe and Reverence, Self-Sufficiency

Think about what these mean to you and how you might use them to mark your own development into nature connection.

How to Participate in this Course

Practice is essential

This is a self-directed, self-paced program. In the videos, Michael gives you instructions for each tool and technique he offers.  In most cases you will need more time, so please, watch the instructions a few times, download and print the handouts, and dedicate time to practice.

We recommend that you take your time and go step by step, giving yourself a few days or a week to practice one step before moving on to the next. (Scroll down to see the steps)

Collaborative learning leads to greater understanding and community.

You are invited to post your experience in the discussion area under each module. This will engage the community as well and start a discussion. EBI instructors and staff will be participating in the discussion area as well, so please ask any questions.  

Also, remember, we are all learning together, each person has their own unique way into understanding, lets all support each other so we can all benefit from each other’s wisdom! 

Certificate of Completion (Optional)

A certificate of completion is available at the end of this course.  In order to obtain it, every step must be checked complete, including the reflection worksheets.