“We are at an edge in the middle.
”
I sit down with the wonderful Ruth Allen, to talk about her journey to writing 'Weathering', her insights into eco psychology, and the importance of relationality in therapy. We explore the complexities of nature connection, the role of language in articulating experiences, and the expectations surrounding nature therapy.
We get into the need for humility in understanding our relationship with nature and the significance of staying present in both human and ecological relationships. We also get real about the act of commitment, the concept of weathering, and the relationship between decay and personal growth.
Ruth shares how rocks can serve as a metaphor for understanding our own lives and the importance of being present in the moment, the challenges of facing decay and loneliness, while also emphasizing the value of commitment to living fully and authentically. And we dwell on the interconnectedness of life, death, and the natural world, encouraging listeners to embrace the complexities of existence.
Takeaways
The concept of eco psychology is about broadening our understanding of relationships with nature.
Language plays a crucial role in articulating our experiences with nature and each other.
Not all experiences in nature are profound; some are simply ordinary moments.
The expectation of constant ecstasy in nature therapy can be misleading.
Staying in relationship with nature requires patience and commitment, even during dull moments.
Understanding our own experiences is essential to fostering connections with the natural world.
Commitment is about giving oneself time and space.
Facing decay can lead to a deeper understanding of existence.
The process of weathering can soften our experiences.
Embracing the cyclical nature of life helps in coping with decay.
About Ruth
Ruth is a writer/author, embodied psychotherapist and writing facilitator and mentor. She has written two books Weathering (Penguin Random House, 2024) and Grounded(Hachette, 2021) and is currently writing her third book publishing with PRH in 2027. She also writes and illustrates zines which she self-publishes to explore ideas and preoccupations that arise ‘between book projects’ and which push the boundaries of genre and form.
Combining her doctorate in geology with innovative body-based and creative techniques drawing on a multitude of psychological teachings and influences, she offers therapy, mentoring, workshops, classes and adventure retreats – all practical, slow magic – designed to help others connect with their bodies, their words, and the rest of nature through depth-full enquiry and practices that extend our capacity to listen and nurture deep resonance with the world around us.
