By: Patricia Darrow, Astrologer

darrowmp@gte.net

One of the most exciting areas of scientific studies in modern times is the work of Wilhelm Reich which sought to validate and study the existence of "life force energy" in all things. Different scientists have labeled this limitless energy in a variety of ways. However, they are all touching upon the knowledge which native people everywhere have always known. There is life force energy running through all God's creations, including rocks, plants, animals and humans. This life force energy current connects all of us together as One.

A powerful way to truly perceive this truth in your own inner heart, is to open yourself fully to communication with nature. This communication is two-way, and is a powerful channel for self awareness and spiritual growth.

If you are seeking a more direct relationship with the power, wisdom and comfort which nature can provide, you must be willing to take quiet time and relearn the basic skills of perceiving. Many of us have lost this ability in our hectic artificial worlds.

Begin by going out in nature, ideally where you have some privacy. Ask to be guided to a quiet spot where you will feel peaceful. Notice the place you have chosen: -- is it sunny or shady; open or hidden, near water, trees or other foliage? Find a place to sit and just let go of outside thoughts. Look at one square foot of ground near you and notice everything about it -- not judging, analyzing -- just observing.

Another day, find a place which has some trees. Choose one tree which welcomes you. Approach the tree with respect. Ask permission to send it some love. Hug the tree. Feel its bark on your hands and face. Notice your feet connected to its roots. Feel the wind as it blows by. Again, just practice feeling -- not thinking!

Two simple but powerful exercises help you get in touch with the natural world. Before you can begin giving/receiving communication with nature, you must open those channels of communication. The natural world communicates, largely through touch, sound, sight and smell as well as feelings. It takes practice to turn off our overactive minds while remaining in contact with our physical bodies and feelings. We often use our minds (both right and left sides) so actively that we forget how to perceive through our bodies. Ask yourself, "How am I feeling?", "What am I feeling?", "Where in my body am I feeling?", as you do these exercises. Pay attention to your body's sensations, such as tingling, tension, heat, etc. to give you input and guidance from these natural friends.

Another way to open up communication with the powers of nature is to make a commitment with yourself and the universe to receive messages or signs from nature. Then keep a journal in which you make notes of the insects, animals, birds, plants or stones which appear in your life. You may then begin to perceive patterns or unique encounters with nature which are significant to you.

In closing, I would like to encourage you to ask the animals, plants, and rocks to communicate with you. Ask them what message they are offering. It can be helpful to consult information shared by others (for example, the Medicine Cards by Jamie Sams and David Carson), but don't stop there. If the butterfly is hovering around you, take a moment and ask it to share its message. It may come to you then, or it may not become obvious until you've had numerous encounters with the same kind of butterfly. Or the meaning may be revealed in your dreams, in meditation, or at a totally unrelated time. Remember, the animal presented itself to you and the message is meant for you personally. That message is a gift from the animal and from your Creator. Honor it by opening yourself to receive the gift!