The Gifts of Environmental Service
Resources for Serving (our) Nature, and How it Serves to Serve
Environmental service is ecosystem care; just like a home needs care of the walls, the windows, the doors, the roof, and the foundation, the environment needs care for the whole ecosystem. Stewardship supports what’s hurt or out of balance with the knowing that that as one part heals, the rest of the pieces also benefit- which includes us! With life as a mirror, service to others and self-love are two sides of the very same coin that always work together.
Here’s how serving (our) nature also serves us:
It creates a sense of purpose and belonging: when we participate in the environment, we feel purpose within it. This helps us to feel part of it. When we feel part of nature, we feel belonging in it. This is extremely beneficial to our self-worth, and to the meaning that we make of our lives. Self-worth and belonging are key allies in navigating the stresses of life.
It generates hope and empowerment, which are key ingredients for resilience. I know there’s good in the world because I’m part of it. I know that the hard parts of life won’t last forever because I am connected to life’s cycles.
It creates valuable community relationships: Connecting with others who serve (our) nature provides a network of caring folks who often offer psychological and practical support to our lives.
It’s good for our bodies.12 3 Exercise and exposure to the elements reduces stress, builds strength, and supports overall wellbeing.
Here’s Some Common Forms of Environmental Stewardship:
Preserving Biodiversity (learn more about biodiversity here)
Planting (and Caring for) Native Plants
Removing Invasive Plants
Supporting Wildlife
Supporting Pollinators.
Cleaning the Air
Reducing Air Pollution
Planting Trees
Picking Up and Processing Trash/Waste
Local and Sustainable Food Production
Here’s Some Resources to Get Started:
Everyone is qualified to serve (our) nature.
DIY Habitat Restoration:
Help Restore Biodiversity at Your Own Home
This awesome resource is made by Homegrown National Park who provides education and support for everyday people to restore our home habits.
Watch the video series I made on DIY Sustainable Yard Transformations:
DIY Gardening:
Nothing awakens the feeling of being part of nature like participating in growing our own food, especially when we approach it with the whole ecosystem in mind.
Learn the Basics:
Growing Food as part of an Ecosystem with Permaculture Principles
Start Small:
Balcony Gardening (with Permaculture Principles)
Community Gardens
If you love gardening with others, or if you don’t have space at home for garden, or the confidence to get started, volunteering in a community garden is a joy!
Volunteer for Environmental Stewardship & Restoration Projects
Thankfully, serving (our) nature is accessible. Service opportunities rarely require special experience or understanding as volunteer experiences often include the necessary education. Volunteer leaders are always very grateful for any support they get as much of the work that’s needed is time-consuming and tedious (such as pulling weeds, planting seeds, or picking up trash). Because tasks are often quite simple, it’s easy to start as a novice. Similarly, because tasks are often tedious, it’s easy to talk to others while working, making it fun and satisfying to work alongside so many hands.
To find service opportunities:
Google search “environmental stewardship/restoration” or any of the above activities in your area. You can also look for volunteer opportunities at city, state, or national parks near you. DIY stewardship is also an option in your own neighborhood by growing food and native plants, and by picking up trash.
Also, keep in mind that learning is serving: the more we understand nature, the better we are at caring for it. To that end, here’s some basic ecosystems notes to get you started:
→ Getting to Know (our) Nature: Noticing, Wondering, Relating & Learning
→ Ecological Foundations: seeing (our) nature as a whole over time
→ Ecological Wondering: field questions for finding meaningful clues to deepen understanding
Let’s Do It, Together 💗
https://health.ucdavis.edu/blog/cultivating-health/3-ways-getting-outside-into-nature-helps-improve-your-health/2023/05#:~:text=Need%20an%20excuse%20to%20get,creativity%20and%20problem%2Dsolving%20abilities.
https://healthtalk.unchealthcare.org/health-benefits-of-gardening/
https://www.healthline.com/health/healthful-benefits-of-gardening#reduces-stress