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How Do We Measure the Connectivity Between Humanity and Nature?
- Adriana Rocha
- Sep 20
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 30
Our connectivity to nature has been getting weaker. Some of us no longer feel the need or intention to connect with the natural world.
How Do We Measure Our Connectivity to Nature?
Do we measure it by the absence of nature in our cultural creations? Are we losing our connection because creating is easier with artificial intelligence? Among what we create, how often do we produce content related to nature?
Words That Connect Us to Nature
Here are some words that evoke nature:
Autumn, cloud, lake, moonlight
Bluebell, tulip, foxglove, rose
Cedar, laburnum, whitebeam, willow
Finch, hummingbird, meadowlark, spoonbill
These words have graced the works of pop culture throughout time, including English fiction books. The shocking fact is that nature-related vocabulary in movies, documentaries, poems, and other cultural creations has decreased significantly in recent years. If our thoughts mention fewer nature words, our actions will care less for the natural world.
What Is the Source of Our Natural Deficit?
Everything points to the era when leisure began shifting indoors. This change started in the 1950s with the rise of television as the most popular entertainment medium. By the 1970s, video games emerged, and soon after, the internet took over. Technology has claimed more and more of our leisure time since the late 1990s. Now, we see technology as a major substitute for nature and a primary source of recreation.
Looking back at cultural creations, we notice the disappearance of nature vocabulary from conversations and artistic productions. This shift makes it clear that we have become less focused on, and less concerned about, matters of nature.
The Impact of Technology on Our Lives
It's crucial to understand that excessive use of technology isn't healthy for our bodies. Studies and complaints from parents, teens, and young adults reveal that too much screen time can lead to eye damage, social isolation, lack of social skills, and behavioral changes. Many children today grow up indoors, in homes devoid of greenery and fresh air.
This overuse and misuse of technology could be addressed if we choose to step outside for a short walk. We can notice there’s so much out there: a world filled with open spaces, sounds, silence, and older beings that listen, heal, and feed our need for peace.
"...there is so much out there: a world with open spaces, sounds, silence and older beings that listen and heal, and feed our need for peace and silence."
The Healing Power of Nature
Many people find that a long walk in an open green space can help regulate their moods. Studies show that simply looking at green spaces can boost our mental health. Others find joy and happiness while working in their gardens, tending to flowers, watering plants, and arranging decorations.
Despite the negative impacts of technology, it can also be beneficial when used in moderation. There’s a modern trend among younger generations who create social media content featuring visual material. People often make reels, videos, and stories with specific backgrounds, outfits, and tools that reflect the seasons.
As fall approaches, we’ll soon see a glamorous palette of orange, yellow, and red flooding social media. Users will think creatively about how to stand out. A photo captures both a person and their environment, and that environment deserves our attention and care.
Reconnecting with Nature Through Art
It’s important to reconnect with nature, to sit down, capture the beauty of the seasons, and show that we are artists who appreciate not just good selfies but also meaningful moments with nature.
Connection can involve keeping our natural areas beautiful and cared for. Care can mean simple acts like cleaning up litter, visiting green spaces, and appreciating the plants around us. A photo can have a powerful impact when both the artist and the background are in harmony.
We can do a lot with our phones. Instead of only taking selfies, we can create galleries of natural collections. Perhaps local and state governments will recognize the importance of investing in and maintaining these green spaces when they see more people visiting, caring, and contributing. It’s all part of connecting and letting others know that these natural environments matter to us.
The Importance of Community Involvement
We can inspire change by coming together as a community. When we engage with nature, we also foster a sense of belonging. Organizing clean-up events, planting trees, or simply sharing our experiences can create a ripple effect.
Building a Network of Nature Lovers
Let’s build a network of individuals who care about the environment! We can share our stories, art, and experiences to inspire others. By collaborating, we can amplify our voices and make a more significant impact.
Encouraging Sustainable Practices
As we reconnect with nature, we can also promote sustainable practices. Whether it’s through art, community projects, or social media, we can encourage others to consider their impact on the environment.
About the Author:
Adriana Rocha is a Bolivian-born psychologist, writer, and photographer whose work has been published in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. She believes in the healing power of art, blending poetry, photography, and psychology to explore themes of nature, reflection, and human connection. Adriana is a member of the Confluence Creative Collective and a contributing writer for the Confluence Chronicles.
References
Kesebir, P., Kesebir, S. (2017, September 20). How Modern Life Became Disconnected from Nature. Great Good Magazine. Science-based insights for a meaningful life.
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