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Ecomysticism: The Profound Experience of Nature as Spiritual Guide
Explores the philosophy, science, and spirituality of nature mysticism and its Green calling
• Offers a solid bridge between spiritual practice and environmental activism
• Reveals how we can heal the environment by renewing our connection to it
• Shows how spiritual encounters in nature are healing the Nature Deficit Disorder of our psyches and bodies
Many have been struck by a majestic moment in nature--a sole illuminated flower in a shady grove, an owl swooping silently across a wooded path, or an infinitely starry sky--and found themselves in a state of expanded awareness so profound they can feel the interconnectedness of all life. These trance-like moments of clarity, unity, and wonder often incite a call to protect and preserve the earth--to support Nature as she supports us. Termed “nature mysticism,” people from all cultures have described such experiences. However, the ever-increasing urbanization of the world’s population is threatening this ancient connection as well as the earth itself.
In Ecomysticism , Carl von Essen explores nature mysticism through the recorded experiences of outdoor enthusiasts as well as scientific studies in biology, psychology, and neuroscience. Citing consciousness scholar William James and a variety of well-known nature lovers such as Ansel Adams, Henry David Thoreau, and Ralph Waldo Emerson, von Essen shows how the spiritual transcendence from an encounter in nature--like other mystical experiences--is healing the Nature Deficit Disorder of our psyches and bodies, leading to an expansion of our worldview and a clearer understanding of our self and of our natural world. Offering a solid bridge between spiritual practice and environmental activism, von Essen’s spiritual ecology reveals how only through a renewal of humanity’s spiritual connection to nature can we effect true environmental healing.
• Offers a solid bridge between spiritual practice and environmental activism
• Reveals how we can heal the environment by renewing our connection to it
• Shows how spiritual encounters in nature are healing the Nature Deficit Disorder of our psyches and bodies
Many have been struck by a majestic moment in nature--a sole illuminated flower in a shady grove, an owl swooping silently across a wooded path, or an infinitely starry sky--and found themselves in a state of expanded awareness so profound they can feel the interconnectedness of all life. These trance-like moments of clarity, unity, and wonder often incite a call to protect and preserve the earth--to support Nature as she supports us. Termed “nature mysticism,” people from all cultures have described such experiences. However, the ever-increasing urbanization of the world’s population is threatening this ancient connection as well as the earth itself.
In Ecomysticism , Carl von Essen explores nature mysticism through the recorded experiences of outdoor enthusiasts as well as scientific studies in biology, psychology, and neuroscience. Citing consciousness scholar William James and a variety of well-known nature lovers such as Ansel Adams, Henry David Thoreau, and Ralph Waldo Emerson, von Essen shows how the spiritual transcendence from an encounter in nature--like other mystical experiences--is healing the Nature Deficit Disorder of our psyches and bodies, leading to an expansion of our worldview and a clearer understanding of our self and of our natural world. Offering a solid bridge between spiritual practice and environmental activism, von Essen’s spiritual ecology reveals how only through a renewal of humanity’s spiritual connection to nature can we effect true environmental healing.
288 pages, Paperback
First published November 1, 2010
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Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews
March 5, 2026
Stars: 1.5. The author uses so many micro quotes, some a few words long others a whole sentence. Nitpicking quotes feels the author was trying to force others work to fit his point. I imagined the author lecturing making frequent air quotes with his hands.
I felt he did not speak enough about place when he gave examples of others mystical experiences in nature.
I felt he did not speak enough about place when he gave examples of others mystical experiences in nature.
January 27, 2013
Magical! I say this because it is refreshing to hear how some people's’ experiences within nature are still rife with magical themes. The experiences contained within Ecomysticism illuminate a deeper sense of connection that lies outside the concrete jungle, the bustle of 'civility'. Indeed, natural magic is still there!
February 6, 2013
It is a deeply beautiful work embracing science, philosophy, psychology, ecology and yes much of it is totally true, but half way through I felt like I had engaged with it enough. I already know it to be true, its putting such thoughts and concerns into action that is the real key. Awareness does not necessarily create action.
November 17, 2010
As soon as I read the back cover, I knew this book was one I would enjoy. I guess you could say I'm a "natural mystic" and this book simply spoke to my heart.
Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews