Recently, I had a moment where I just didn’t feel seen. And later, as I was processing those feelings, I picked up James Crews’ newest book of poetry, Unlocking the Heart, and I opened to the poem, ‘The World Loves You Back’ -

It was exactly what I needed to hear.

That I/You/We are all seen for exactly who we are by the animate earth around us. 

That we aren’t alone.

In today’s meditation class, we explore the significance of belonging and being actively engaged in one’s environment. We delve into the idea of reciprocal relationships with the animate earth and our meditation practices, with an emphasis on the importance of active participation. 

Join me for a poem, discussion and guided meditation inviting us into reciprocal breathing with the forest around us. 

Thank you to Acoustic Ecologist Gordon Hempton for the use of today’s soundscape. Learn more about Gordon here: https://soundtracker.com/about-gordon-hempton/ 



Sign up for my newsletter at https://merylarnett.substack.com/ to receive free mini meditations each week, creative musings, and more.

Thank you to Brianna Nielsen for production and editing support. Find her at:

instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro

Watch on YouTube, Make a donation, or learn more about my free offerings and live classes by visiting 

merylarnett.com

instagram.com/merylarnett

youtube.com/@ourmindfulnature

This podcast explores meditation, mental health and the power of connection, offering guidance for caregivers, healers, and therapists facing compassion fatigue, burnout, and other mental health struggles through self-care, self-compassion, and resilience. With a focus on anxiety, depression, and overwhelm, each episode provides tools like meditation, mindfulness, breathwork, and grounding to cultivate clarity and reduce stress. Listeners can also experience nature-inspired guided meditations, designed to bring peace and balance in times of distress.