Rewilding in Amsterdam: rediscover your innate wild nature
In the urban jungle of Amsterdam, where bicycles zip past picturesque canals and bustling markets, lies an opportunity to reconnect with a more primal part of ourselves. Inspired by David Abram’s profound work, Becoming Animal: An Earthly Cosmology, we at Movement Matters invite you to explore the depths of your innate, wild nature. Abram’s philosophy reminds us that we are not merely inhabitants of the earth but deeply interconnected with all its living beings. Let’s embark on a journey to embrace this wildness, finding moments of connection in our everyday lives.
The philosophy of becoming animal
David Abram, an ecologist and philosopher, challenges us to break free from the confines of our anthropocentric worldview. He argues that by immersing ourselves in the natural world and attuning to our senses, we can rediscover our place within the broader web of life. This return to our animal nature isn’t about regression but about reclaiming a lost part of our humanity—our capacity to be fully present, to listen deeply, and to engage sensually with the world around us.
Embracing the wild in Amsterdam
Amsterdam, with its vibrant mix of urban and natural spaces, offers a unique backdrop for this journey. Here are some elegant, witty, and practical exercises inspired by Becoming Animal that you can integrate into your daily routine:
Rewilding through sensory exploration: engage with nature in Amsterdam
- Morning Sensory Walks
- Exercise: Begin your day with a sensory walk through Noorderpark. As you walk, focus on each of your senses in turn. Notice the scent of damp earth and blooming flowers, the sound of birds and bicycles, the texture of bark and leaves.
- Why: This practice grounds you in the present moment, enhancing your sensory awareness and deepening your connection to the natural world.
- Urban Animal Movements
- Exercise: Incorporate animal-inspired movements into your exercise routine. Try stretching like a cat, balancing like a flamingo, or prowling like a fox. Use playgrounds or open spaces to explore these movements.
- Why: These playful movements remind us of our physicality and the joy of moving freely, breaking the monotony of conventional workouts.
- Mindful Meals by the Water
- Exercise: Take your lunch to a quiet spot by a canal or river. Before eating, take a few deep breaths and engage fully with your surroundings. Listen to the water, feel the breeze, and appreciate the life around you.
- Why: Mindful eating in nature enhances your appreciation for food and the environment, fostering a deeper sense of gratitude and connection.
- Evening Reflections with the elements
- Exercise: In the evening, find a quiet place—perhaps your balcony or a park bench. Reflect on your day using the elements as a guide: earth (grounding experiences), water (emotional flow), fire (passions ignited), and air (thoughts and inspirations).
- Why: This ritual encourages holistic reflection, helping you to integrate your experiences and maintain balance.
The therapeutic benefits of becoming animal
At Movement Matters, we believe in the power of body-based therapy to facilitate this reconnection with our animal and rewilding selves. By integrating practices like those inspired by Abram’s philosophy, we can address the modern malaise of disconnection and stress. Here’s how:
- Enhanced Mindfulness: Regular engagement with nature and sensory exercises fosters mindfulness, reducing stress and enhancing overall well-being.
- Improved Physical Health: Animal-inspired movements promote physical fitness, flexibility, and joy in movement, countering the sedentary lifestyle of urban living.
- Emotional Resilience: Connecting with nature and reflecting on our experiences helps to process emotions, build resilience, and foster a sense of peace.
Conclusion: Rewilding in the City
David Abram’s Becoming Animal offers a powerful reminder of our intrinsic connection to the natural world. By embracing our wild selves through simple, mindful practices, we can cultivate a deeper sense of belonging and well-being. In the heart of Amsterdam, amidst the blend of urban life and nature, there lies a perfect setting for this rewilding journey.
At Movement Matters, we are dedicated to supporting you on this path with our body-based therapies and holistic practices. Join us in rediscovering the beauty of our animal nature and the profound connections that make us whole.
For more insights and to explore our range of therapeutic offerings, visit Movement Matters.
Sources:
- Abram, David. Becoming Animal: An Earthly Cosmology. Pantheon Books, 2010.
0 reacties