In this episode of Beyond Trauma, mindfulness and meditation teacher Mark Coleman explores the deep connection between the natural world and meditation. We discuss the history of nature-based contemplative practices, the difference between concentration and awareness meditation, and how the elements can support our personal growth. Mark shares why practicing meditation outdoors can enhance mindfulness, how nature fosters a deeper sense of self, and what to do if you don’t have access to outdoor spaces. We also confront a common dilemma—how to process the guilt of not doing enough to protect the environment while still finding joy and presence in nature.
You will learn:
*The difference between concentration meditation and awareness meditation
*How the elements can support and deepen your meditation practice
*Why meditating outside may feel more easeful and natural than meditating indoors
*How nature helps awaken the senses and cultivate a more connected sense of self
*Ways to use nature to aid in trauma recovery
*Practical ways to bring nature into your meditation when you can’t be outside
*The role of mindfulness in navigating eco-anxiety and environmental guilt
*How to walk through the natural world with greater reverence and respect
Mark has trained extensively both in the Insight meditation and Tibetan tradition. He is a senior teacher at Spirit Rock Meditation Center and has taught insight meditation retreats since 1997. Mark is passionate about guiding people to meditate in nature. He has led wilderness nature retreats for over twenty years worldwide. Through his organization Awake in the Wild Mark leads year-long nature meditation teacher trainings in the US and Europe. Co-founder of the Mindfulness Training Institute Mark also leads year-long mindfulness teacher trainings. He is the author of many books including Awake in the Wild - Mindfulness in nature as a path to Self-discovery; Make Peace With Your Mind - How Mindfulness and Compassion can free you from the Inner Critic; From Suffering to Peace The True Promise of Mindfulness; and his recent book A Field Guide to Nature Meditation - 52 mindfulness practices for joy, wisdom and wonder.
Find out more about Mark’s work at
www.markcoleman.org & www.awakeinthewild.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Your support is deeply appreciated!
Find me, Lara, on my Website / Instagram
You can support this podcast with any level of donation here.
Order The Essential Guide to Trauma Sensitive Yoga: How to Create Safer Spaces for All
Opening and Closing music: Other People's Photographs courtesy of Daniel Zaitchik. Follow Daniel on Spotify.