sustaining passion through presence
|
Those of us who dedicate our time to conservation, or any other mission-based field, depend largely on our passion for the cause to fuel and motivate our work. Yet as a crisis-driven cause – born out of the loss of biodiversity and a desperate effort to protect our planet’s ecosystems – conservation can drain one’s energy and quickly lead to eco-anxiety, hopelessness and burnout.
Mindfulness is my solution. Through focusing the mind beyond the narrow scope of habitual thinking – which includes judgement and emotional response – we awaken to the present moment. In focusing on Presence, we maintain a mindful recognition of what is happening here and now and in the rich, perfect experience that is our planet and the eternal reality in which it exists. |
|
|
Mindfulness is my solution. One of the quickest ways we can access Presence is using our body’s senses, through connecting to the environment – the sounds, tastes, smells, feelings and sights – immediately around and beyond our beyond. Yoga – the control of body posture, breath and mind – and yoga nidra - the yoga of sleep - help me initiate mindfulness. One of my most fulfilling places to practice yoga outside in nature, when my senses are grounded in Presence by stimulation from the species and elements around me.
Maintaining mindfulness and Presence in as many moments as possible during our daily life rejuvenates our energy and passion, renewing optimism and hope that we can conserve our planet’s biodiversity and ecosystems. But we must care for our own resilience in order to care for the Earth. We can sustain our passion through Presence. |
Practicing passion with presence
As a Level 2 iRest Yoga Nidra Teacher, I teach classes and workshops for conservation practitioners to help build resilience, nurture our passion and equip us with tools to navigate the challenges of our work. These guided practices are rooted in the principles of yoga nidra meditation taught by my father and guru, Dr. Richard Miller, and the iRest Institute. Please contact me to learn about ongoing classes or to discuss developing a customized workshop for your team or organization.
