WHY YOUR INNER NATURE IS IMPORTANT
it's within us all
and we do mean all
The body learns that there is no inside without an outside and no self without a world. Breathing is proof of this — air becomes body and body becomes air. The gaze is proof of this as well — what is seen shapes the seer.
The World Begins In Our Body, Psychology Today, October 27, 2025
"We are not just in an environment; we are the environment. What we breathe, eat, and drink becomes who we are, literally."
Caroline Deir, "The Human Body as a Microcosm of the Planet," April 2025
signs of somatic dissociation
REDUCED SENSATION
UNEXPLAINED CONDITIONS
BODY DISCONNECTION
CONSTANT PAIN & FATIGUE
Somatic dissociation can occur when a person encounters overwhelming stress, traumatic reminders, or situations where they feel trapped or unable to escape.
" I long, as does every human being, to be at home wherever I find myself."
– Maya Angelou
Why does my self-practice matter?
When I was younger, I noticed that the healthiest times of my life were when other people depended upon my demonstration of self-discipline in terms of my time management, my observance of a physical practice, and my adherence to a healthy diet. This was because for 15 years I coached movement performance and personal leadership to co-ed teams at over two dozen high schools and universities.
It was essential to be a good example. But later as I shifted my career focus towards realizing effective organizations, my body missed the physical and dietary discipline whenever my habits would slip. I've noticed that as my body ages, it requires patience from me, but it still appreciates me when I move and eat well.
Life's too short. Who has time to re-live that cycle every new-years eve or swimsuit season? Not I! And how much money could we all save by being happy with nature's free solutions for health?
Down-to-earth, free nature-based life practices make us healthier. And there's enough research-backed shared work that backs up the fact that nature's healing should be free and available to all. Check out the actual proof (below).
It turns out the best things in life really are free. Go ahead. Dig in. You're worth it.
~Joy
the books
THE NATURE FIX
Why nature makes us happier, healthier, and more creative
By Florence Williams; Published by W. W. Norton & Co. in 2017; ISBN 978-168-16-8397-3
"This book explores the science of what poets and philosophers have known for eons: place matters." Ms. Williams' work sets up an explanation of why our brains and our bodies need nature.
THE HOME PLACE
Memoirs of a Colored Man's Love Affair with Nature
By J. Drew Lanham; Published by Milkweed Editions in 2016; ISBN 978-157-13-1350-8
If you ever wondered about the rationale behind a person-of-color's fears about going into nature, read this first-hand account of a bird researcher as he is forced to decide between survival and professional duty in rural America.
NATURE THERAPY
and Preventive Medicine
By Juyoung Lee, Qing Li, Liisa Tyrväinen, Yuko Tsunetsugu, Bum-Jin Park, Takahide Kagawa and Yoshifumi Miyazaki
Published by InTech in 2012; eISBN 978-953-51-0620-3
A quote from this book sums up the benefits of this research for us: "Although we are now living in a society characterized by urbanization and artificialization, our physiological functions are still adapted to to nature."
the news
"BAD THINGS HAPPEN IN THE WOODS."
Three African American hikers describe fears and stereotypes they have faced – and why they love hitting the trails.
Visitors to our 4-acre urban forest in Kansas City tell us similar accounts of their internal arguments for and against going into the woods. Remembrances of lynchings and unexplained disappearances less than a century ago in KC transform into hope for a path forward, only after safe reacquaintance with nature.
ONGOING RESEARCH BACKING NATURE UTILIZATION
green cities = good health
Trees, parks, gardens, and natural areas enhance quality of life in cities and towns. The experience of nature improves human health and well-being in many ways. Nearly 40 years of scientific studies tell us how.
The U.S. Forest Service weighs in on the effects of nature deprivation on low-income residents of urban areas. Many community features that would counteract nature deprivation are seen as amenities signaling affluence, due to their cost.
naturespace = humanity
Vibrant Cities Lab helps people connect with the "why" behind urban forests, and the "how" of planning and implementation.
our ongoing explorations
get involved, your way
There are lots of choices if you feel compelled to help with this cause. Thank you for your caring.
THREE POWERFUL WAYS TO HELP
CONTINUE THIS WORK
and stay connected to the results
Our work through Groundswell Growth makes reciprocity an asset.
The multiplying difference:
It's healing to feel thankful so greatly that you want to give what you can of what you have. That's the way healthy communities roll.
Sharing is healing for community changemakers, and healing for you. And this "giving-back and getting-boosted" 2-way street runs all year.
Be a blessing to others, and discover unexpected returns that thrive and grow outside of the monetary value system.
– Joy Ellsworth, co-founder
"Thank you for being the difference between thought and thoughtful action."