Never Say ‘Nature’ Again

Ok don't get me wrong, I understand that nature is important for environmental reasons, and if you like nature while I disagree [sic] I understand why. But my God, it's soooo boring. I live in Minnesota where it's either god awfully hot or stupidly cold. It's boring, bugs are everywhere and there's no air conditioning. I'll never understand why anyone likes hiking. The only thing people do is talk or just observe things or fish or some BS. I hate going out there. 

-10macattack via reddit

As seasoned outdoor guides, we've spent countless days and nights hiking, climbing, paddling, biking, swimming- living-  within the natural rhythms of the great outdoors. Over the years, we've come to realize something profound: the term 'nature' itself carries a connotation that often separates us from the very essence of life. Humans have gradually created a distinction between ourselves and ‘the environment,’ which couldn't be further from the truth. In reality, the natural world is not 'out there'; it's the only 'real' world we know. To truly embrace this reality, we must eliminate the use of the word 'nature' from our vocabulary.

Just observing or some b.s.

The term 'nature' implies a separation, a detachment from the world around us. It's as if there's a line between the human realm and the 'natural' one. But this division is a mere illusion, a social creation, one that we need to dispel. Instead, we should recognize that we are not observers of the natural world; we are an integral part of it. Our lives are interwoven with the ecosystems, landscapes, and creatures that make up our planet. The more we acknowledge this unity, the more fulfilled and connected we become as individuals.

So why should we retire the word 'nature' and embrace the interconnectedness of our true home? Here are some compelling reasons:

Redefining Our Place in the World: By abandoning the term 'nature,' we shift our perspective. We no longer perceive ourselves as outsiders looking in; we become participants in the grand symphony of life. This shift in mindset can lead to a profound sense of responsibility and stewardship for our environment.

Deepening Our Connection: When we stop thinking of 'nature' as something separate, we begin to realize that our existence is inseparable from the natural world. We depend on clean air, water, and food for our survival. Every breath we take, every sip of water we drink, and every morsel of food we consume is an intimate connection to the 'real' world. Every awe inspiring view reminds us that we are a small part of something much larger than ourselves. This humility can also remind us that we are connected to each other, no matter our differences. 

Time outside can deepen our connection to the world and each other

Promoting Conservation: Viewing the world as a singular, interconnected system underscores the urgency of preserving it. We understand that the destruction of a forest in a remote corner of the world affects the delicate balance of our entire planet. This perspective is vital for encouraging global conservation efforts.

Enhancing Our Well-being: As individuals, we experience increased happiness, reduced stress, and improved mental and physical health when we immerse ourselves in the 'real' world. It's not just about recreational activities; it's about recognizing that spending time outdoors connects us to the very source of our being.

Being outside makes us feel good physically and mentally

Fostering Empathy: The more we shed the notion of 'nature' and acknowledge our symbiotic relationship with the environment, the more empathetic we become. We develop a deeper understanding of the plight of other species, as we realize that their survival is intertwined with our own.

So, how do we go about eliminating the word 'nature' from our vocabulary and embracing our inseparable connection with the world around us? It begins with mindfulness. Instead of saying "I'm going out into nature," we might say "I'm going out into the world" or simply, “I’m going outside." These small linguistic adjustments can have a profound impact on how we perceive and interact with our environment.

As outdoor enthusiasts and guides, it's our responsibility to lead the way in this linguistic and perceptual shift. We encourage our clients and friends to reframe their relationship with the world. The 'real' world is not 'out there'; it's right here, within us and around us. It's time we embrace this truth and nurture our connection to the beautiful, intricate tapestry of life that sustains us all. Never say 'nature' again, for in doing so, we reaffirm our unity with the only 'real' world we know.