Nature as Sanctuary
Healing Religious Trauma Groups
Religion often provides structure and valuable support for so many. However, if you do not fit within the sometimes narrowly defined view of the community, dogmatic religion can leave you feeling othered. For those who have moved away from the religion of your upbringing, are LGBTQIA+, of a different political bent, or even those who are out-of-the box spiritual thinkers, established religion can often put a wedge between our daily worldview and that of our faith. This may leave us feeling unwanted, judged, or ashamed – in short, estranged from our own being. This rigidity weighs heavily on us, turning something meant for connection and support/refuge into a source of strain and isolation.
In contrast, nature is ever-evolving, ever-changing, yet constant in its embrace. For those who have felt othered in their religious upbringings, there are alternative options available, such as eco-spirituality and support groups. Such alternative groups foster a flexible approach to spirituality, a sense of widened community, and powerful sanctuary in nature.
(Location TBD)