A guide for reigniting our ancient bond with the natural world.
We are innately compassionate beings, interconnected with nature and animals. When we are in touch with this we feel connected, supported and at peace. This in turn gives us power and influence which historically has been discouraged, the powers that be instead preferring women to be small, quiet and disengaged with the world around them. Reigniting our ancient connection to our shared natural world, seeking the interconnection of all life is a rebellious act of female empowerment and necessary stewardship of our earth.
During the witch hunts in Europe and North America, it was enough for a woman to reveal a love of animals or to possess knowledge of plants and healing practices for her to be accused of witchcraft. As patriarchal systems evolved, women were forced to take domestic, subservient roles in the home, detached from the natural world. Over the past century, farming practices have become more industrialised and controlled by male dominant corporations. Women and particularly those in the working class and marginalised communities, who once had a direct, intimate relationship with animals were excluded from these new systems that viewed animals as commodities to be controlled, rather than companions to be cared for.
As women lost their inherent value, so too did animals become more objectified and their emotional and spiritual significance diminished. As we reconnect with animals and nature, we are reminded of the larger, interconnected web of life that we are each a vital part of. Returning to the values of our ancestors will contribute not only to the greater wellbeing of animals and the health of our natural world but also aid our own healing.
Here are 7 ways to help rekindle our bond with nature and animals whilst ensuring space for healing, creativity, and self-discovery:
- Observe the Changing Seasons and Lunar Cycles.
Women have long been linked to nature and its cycles. The Earth has its rhythms, and by tuning into the changing seasons and lunar cycles, you can align your energy with the natural world. Take time to celebrate the turning of the seasons through small rituals – whether it’s a solstice ceremony, full moon walk, or eating seasonally. These can remind us of the cyclical nature of life, the natural ebb and flow of our energy, and our interconnectedness with nature. A book thats helped me come up with a few ideas of how to celebrate the seasons is ‘The Wheel of the Year’ by Rebecca Beattie. - Take Solo Walks in Nature.
For much of my life, I’ve been surrounded by family, friends, and loved ones, so being alone was a concept I struggled with. However, over the past few years, I’ve learned to embrace solitude, and now I crave those moments of quiet reflection. Walking alone in nature has become a sacred practice for me, offering space for deep spiritual grounding. I’ve found that the simple act of listening to the sounds around me – the rustling leaves, birdsong, or the crashing of waves – helps clear my mind and revitalise my spirit. Glennie Kindred’s beautiful guidebook Between the Worlds has been a helpful companion on this journey. If I leave the house feeling stressed, I almost always return home feeling lighter and more connected to the Earth. I also love collecting small natural treasures, like dried lichen or pine cones, which I bring home to add to my nature table (next).
- Create a Simple Nature Altar at Home.
On our kitchen table, we have a round piece of wood with a candle at the centre, surrounded by natural objects and special treasures my son and I have collected. Right now, we have a small ceramic hare, dried lichen from the woods, flowers gifted by a friend, a large interesting seed my son found, pine cones, and stones. Each morning, we light the candle as part of a simple grounding ritual that marks the start of our day. I like to change the candle colour with the seasons – currently, we have a yellow one for midwinter to welcome the return of the sun, and soon I’ll switch to white for spring’s snowdrops, followed by green to honour the first green shoots. It’s a simple yet powerful way to honour the natural world in our daily lives. - Adopt a Mindful Approach to Animal Encounters.
Something in me has always clicked when I’m around animals. Their ability to simply be in this world, without judgement or expectation, soothes me. We live near the woods and I must have seen hundreds of deer but each time I do I am in awe, wishing I was Snow White enough that they’d approach me! Watching my 13 year old little dog sleeping next to me when I work is the greatest stress relief I’ve ever experienced. Watching him at peace, just being a tired little dog after his morning walk is a joy. Spending time with animals, slowing down and truly observing their behaviour can be incredibly healing. Notice the way they move, the sounds they make, and their interactions with the environment. By being present with them, you can open up a deeper connection with the animal kingdom.
- Create a Wildlife-Friendly Garden/Allotment or Partake in a Community Space.
This is the first year I’ve really committed to creating a wildlife-friendly garden. While our garden has always been wild, I want it to become a space that benefits both nature and my family. This winter, I’ve been clearing and preparing it for spring, finding that even with just half a day a week, I can make steady progress. The act of gardening, though simple and unpolished, deeply connects me to the Earth and gives me a sense of purpose. My favorite part has been the resident robin who chirps alongside me, eagerly awaiting the opportunity to investigate the soil I’ve been working. The Forager’s Garden by Anna Locke, a thoughtful gift from a friend, has been a wonderful and inspiring guide as I learn more about growing for both wildlife and myself.
- Enjoy a Creative Arts Practice Inspired by Nature.
For me, it’s my livelihood – creating porcelain art that helps women reconnect with nature and animals. But it doesn’t matter whether you’re “creative” or not.. Creativity is something we all carry within us regardless of whether you were told by a teacher you were good enough or not. You might start by keeping a nature journal, sketching wildflowers or hedgerow berries, and noting how they make you feel. Perhaps you’d enjoy a landscape painting class or, like me, teaching yourself a new craft such as embroidery, where I’ve been using simple stitches shared in Embroidery: A Modern Guide to Botanical Embroidery by Arounna Khounnoraj to create nature-inspired designs that at the minute are for my novice eyes only!. The act of creating art from your experiences in nature can transform your reflections into a deeper, tangible connection to the world around you.
- Volunteer at an Animal Sanctuary or Support Sustainable Practices and Nature Conservation.
Animal sanctuaries and rescue centres are always in need of volunteers and support, and I’ve found them to be communities of like-minded people who care deeply about animals and nature. Volunteering not only gives you the joy of interacting with the animals but also a sense of purpose in meeting their daily needs. Plus, it fosters human connections with others who share the same values. Helping care for animals is, in my view, an act of rebellion against historical forces that denied women such roles, and against systems that seek control over nature. Across the world, grassroots organisations are creating communities of stewards for the planet. Here in West Yorkshire, I support Full of Joy Animal Sanctuary by donating products for their fundraisers and 10% of my sales. Knowing I’m contributing to the well-being of the animals, whether it’s covering vet bills or providing warmth through the winter, deeply connects me to something meaningful.
Thanks for reading and if you’d like to read more about my handcrafted ceramic pieces that help women reconnect with nature and animals you can visit my website here..