Rewilding Attachment Theory
A new article in Psyche Magazine
If our social and emotional lives are profoundly influenced by the natural world, how can we shift from viewing emotional development as a social phenomenon occurring solely between humans to one that encompasses our interconnectedness with Earth?
This is one of the core questions in my recent essay, "Rewilding Attachment Theory: Recognizing Earth as a Caregiver”, for Psyche Magazine. I explore the profound impact of nature on our well-being and advocate for a "rewilding" of attachment theory; acknowledging our deep emotional dependence on the natural world.
Evolved from our vast oceanic womb and woven into the intricate tapestry of life, humanity is an inseparable part of the biodiverse, living world. Our earliest experiences, shaped by the rhythms of nature, form the foundation of our emotional lives. Just as a child seeks solace in their mother’s embrace, our early interactions with nature — whether a city park or a forest of redwoods — are vital threads woven into the fabric of who we are.
A profound bond exists between us and Earth; an connection often diminished in our modern world. Yet, an innate longing for the wild persists. By recognizing Earth as caregiver, we may begin to heal the wounds of disconnection and foster a more harmonious relationship with our local ecosystems.
In our interdependent web of existence, attachments to the world around us become our story of belonging.
Read the article here: https://psyche.co/ideas/rewilding-attachment-theory-by-recognising-earth-as-a-caregiver
An invitation: Join me for “Writing For The Wild,” a new workshop in Partnership with Project Coyote. We begin in September.