The Nature Embedded Mind: How the Way We Think Can Heal Our Planet and Ourselves

by Julie Brams

The Nature Embedded Mind explores some of the most vital questions our culture is facing, regarding the broken relationship between humans and nature. Our persistent and shared delusion that we are different from the rest of nature is at the heart of why we behave in ways that destroy our own habitat. Focusing on our personal and collective beliefs, The Nature Embedded Mind shows how we can begin healing the most important relationship we have, our relationship with Earth. These pages combine the latest scientific research, personal stories, and writing prompts that will allow you to expand your own thinking. Challenging Western psychology, this book aims to prioritize its offered repair as the new foundation for mental health and social wellness.

Genres: Nonfiction, Nature, Health

176 pages, Paperback

Published April 1, 2025

Reviews

[Julia de’Caneva · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a conversation starter, in that, you'll want to talk to everyone you know about it. It explores how the rift between humans and the rest of Nature is causing us and our planet enormous suffering. But rather than doom and gloom, the book offers a path forward for deep transformation and healing. It challenges us to consider how shifting one simple thought (the delusion of separation) could change everything. I appreciate how the author offers reflections at the end of of each chapter because it takes the book from purely conceptual into how you can actually start to shift your relationship to Nature.

Even, and maybe especially if, you've been feeling overwhelmed by the state of the world, I recommend you read this as a fresh take on moving forward. And then maybe give all of your friends a copy so we can start to make some real change, together.

[Christopher Hurtado · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brams’s thesis is revolutionary. While it might seem obvious, it has been obscured by reason. Yet, reason affirms it: humans are not separate from nature, but are part of it. This truth, obscured by Western thought from the Ancient Greeks through the Industrial Revolution, is now reaffirmed by reason.

Greek philosophy elevated human rationality above nature, the Judeo-Christian tradition reinforced dominion over the earth, and the Scientific Revolution, Enlightenment, and Industrial Revolution further deepened the divide through mechanistic and exploitative views of nature.

Drawing from her own rediscovery, Brams invites us to remember what we once knew as children: we are part of nature. She urges us to reimagine a world where we live by this truth and thrive together with the rest of nature.

[Sekar Writes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full review and summary.

A thoughtful and grounding exploration of our relationship with the natural world. The author introduces some terms, one of them is reEarthing, a way of seeing ourselves as part of nature rather than apart from it through stories, forest therapy insights, and reflection invitations. It’s both informative and deeply reflective, perfect for readers interested in mindfulness, ecology, or reconnecting with nature on a personal level. It beautifully explores what it means to reconnect with the Earth and remember that we belong to it, not above it. I especially loved the reflection invitations where they turn reading into a mindful practice. A reminder that healing ourselves and healing the planet often begin in the same place.

[Lisa Rychlik · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book, interesting theory of our relationship with nature. Honestly gave me so much to think about, planning on rereading it. Recommended read for sure!