The Rehash:

 
“The content below relates to the critical importance of experiencing transcendence, one of the 3 pillars of Dharmic Living, and the topic of Mark Bunn’s book ‘Don’t Just Meditate … Transcend’.”
 

Did you know that simply being in nature can promote similar brain wave functioning to transcendence?

While not necessarily to the same extent, the scientific correlates of transcendence, including alpha brain activity in the pre-frontal cortex, reduced cortisol (stress hormone) levels, lowered breath rates, enhanced creativity and many other physiological measures, are also regularly seen in people spending time in nature. Florence Williams, author of ‘The Nature Fix’, highlighted how alpha brain waves are heightened in people immersed in natural environments, as well as pointing out how just 15 minutes in the woods reduces people’s cortisol (stress) levels, 45 minutes enhances their cognitive performance, and nature sounds, such as birdsongs and water flowing, can increase mood and alertness.1

More and more studies are now also showing that some of the calming, mind-body integrating effects of being in natural environments carry over to watching nature-based videos. These are now extending to the promotion of alpha brain wave functioning.2 Look out for Virtual Reality Naturescape technologies in the mental health sphere soon!

Tips for maximizing your nature connection/immersion

Do outdoor hobbies:

Take up or engage in activities that promote being outdoors, relaxation, a deeper connection to nature, and potential ‘transcendent’ moments. E.g’s = gardening, birdwatching,  photography, outdoor art, hiking/wilderness treks, nature journalling, meditating outdoors.

Schedule regular nature outings & 3+ day Nature resets:

Set aside specific times each week to spend time in natural environments and try for 3+ day nature trips two or three times a year. (Cognitive neuroscientist, David Strayer, coined “the 3-day effect,” after demonstrating the profound, creativity-enhancing neural reboot we receive from being in nature for 3 days.)

Prioritize nature-based vacations:

Rather than visiting congested, polluted cities, join the global trend towards “wellness holidays”or “rewilding/wilderness retreats” that offer opportunities for quiet reflection in nature, witnessing sunrises/sunsets, or stargazing away from bright, city lights.

Listen to nature sounds:

Take trips into secluded nature areas – woods, forests, botanic gardens, quiet parks - and sit or lie with your eyes closed listening to the sounds of nature. E.g. gently flowing streams or rivers, waves lapping on a lake or ocean shore, waterfalls, the gentle rusting of trees, or the symphony of bird songs.

Add ‘Awe’ experiences:

While I’m unaware of specific research connecting awe experiences with transcendence, there are undoubtedly many correlates. People who experience awe report greater wellbeing, less stress, higher life satisfaction, and are physically healthier and less materialistic.3 One particular study reported that students who experienced an awe-inspiring encounter with nature (looking up at a towering grove of 200-feet-tall eucalyptus trees for one minute), felt less self-centered, and even behaved more generously when given the chance to help someone.4

Look to add regular awe experiences (things you find ‘awe’some) into your life

E.g’s may include;

  • lying on the ground looking up at tall trees, a vast blue sky, or a star-studded night sky

  • admiring epic natural beauties or phenomenon, e.g. the Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls etc,

  • watching babies or young children playing

  • looking at Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson’s guns!

For More on Mark’s Book – Don’t just Meditate … Transcend

References:

1. Williams.F. The nature fix: why nature makes us happier, healthier, and more creative. W.W. Norton & Company, 2017.
2. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9210930/ 
3. Stimpson.A. Why You Should Seek More Awe in the New Year. 2024 Johns Hopkins Magazine.
4. Piff, P. K., Dietze, P., Feinberg, M., Stancato, D. M., & Keltner, D. (2015). Awe, the small self, and prosocial behavior. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 108(6), 883–899. https://doi.org/10.1037/pspi0000018