Connection With Nature 

​Connecting to nature can be vital when the goal is to bridge polarisation between people or groups. Being in contact with nature helps body and mind to relax, this way we can focus on what truly matters - connection with one self, others,  and nature. Connecting to yourself through embodiement exercise allows the participants to understand and communicate better their thoughts and ideas, since the focus on the body makes the thinking process less rational. 

​

Step 1 – Arrival in Nature 

This exercise takes place outdoors.

• Begin in silence.

• Phones off.

• Invite participants to walk slowly in nature (park, forest, beach, garden).

A sensory walk can also be a valid option to easen the connection between the people and the ground.

​

Nature as Common Ground 

Facilitator briefly explains:​

In this step the facilitator has to explain that nature is experienced through the senses and not opinions, this way the attention in the the body and the environment, and less in the rationalization. Approaching the issu this way makes polarization loses strenght. 

It is also valuable to mention that even people with very different views can share the same natural experience, hence be connected.

​

Step 2 – Deep Listening Outdoors

Form small groups of 3–4, sitting or standing in nature.

Listening rules:

• One person speaks at a time

• No interrupting or debating

• Listening is an act of respect

Choose one question:

• What happened in your life that you wish hadn’t happened?

• What didn’t happen in your life that you wish had happened?

Remember that sharing is voluntary. 

​

Step 4 – Noticing Connection 

Still in the same groups, reflect:

• What felt familiar in others’ stories?

• What did you realize about how similar people’s worries are?

Participants often notice that differences fade in the presence of shared vulnerability. This is a great time to reflect and connect to others. 

​

Step 5 – Closing 

Make the participants aware that the excercise is over. Help them realize that they are standing on the same ground and breathing the same air and how they are all connected through their senses. 

​

This exercise can be done in a urban environment as well, if there is no possibility to reach a natural landscape. But it is adviced to do it in nature if possible.

To achieve the goals in a urban environment replace ''Step 1- Ariival in Nature'', with the following '' Step 1- Arrival in the City''

​

Step 1 – Arrival in the City 

This exercise takes place in a public urban space

• Begin in silence.

• Phones off.

• Invite participants to walk slowly together.

Ask them to notice:

• Sounds (traffic, voices, footsteps)

• Movement around them

• Surfaces they touch (walls, benches, ground)

• Their breath and body sensations

The city, like nature, is shared by everyone — regardless of opinion.

​

​

​