In this presentation by Marilyn Anderson, we’ll consider the various wonderful gifts we receive from the natural world, even when we may be oblivious to them. We’ll consider “Biophilia,” our collective appreciation of Nature and our desire to experience more of it. This includes our satisfaction from walking outdoors, gardening, birdwatching, and even forest bathing. We’ll also consider Nature’s many salutary effects on our bodies and our minds that have been demonstrated through scientific research. One of Nature’s gifts that anyone may experience in the natural world is awe. Like the other gifts of Nature, the emotion of awe also brings its own constellation of healthful benefits. And it doesn’t only come upon us outdoors; awe comes from all kinds of sources, including music, art, spirituality, and acts of moral beauty we see in other people. Where have we found awe, and how has it changed us?

We’ll draw from two recent books in this presentation:

The Nature Fix: Why Nature Makes Us Happier, Healthier, and More Creative, by Florence Williams, (New York: W. W. Norton & Company), 2017

Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How it Can Transform Your Life, by Dacher Keltner (New York: Penguin Press), 2023

Both books will be available in the Library.

Marilyn Anderson is a resident of Lakeville. She holds graduate university degrees in geological sciences and theology. She is a semi-retired Episcopal priest and full-on gardener.

Registration required. Information coming soon.