How Nature Debunks The Myth of Isolation

Isolation simply means that we feel disconnected from ourselves, other people, and our environments. It’s likely that if we feel disconnected from one of those things, we feel disconnected from all of them. Depression, other mental health conditions, addiction, and simply the pace and nature of modern life can stir a sense of isolation in our very cores. However, while isolation feels real, nature teaches us that it’s a myth we’ve been telling ourselves. The philosopher and writer Goethe said, “In nature we never see anything isolated, but everything in connection with something else which is before it, beside it, under it and over it.” Goethe was upset by the fact that the field of science was seeming to get more and more specialized. There were, as there are now, specific fields of study and the scientific community was beginning to get less concerned with the interconnectedness of all of nature. He argued for a more whole or holistic approach to nature. This is a valuable lesson and one that we’re taking hits from now, as science is beginning to return to a more holistic or “whole person” perspective. We know Goethe was onto something, but how specifically does nature de-isolate us?

De-Isolation in Real Time

An ecosystem can be defined as “a biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.” Plants, insects, and animals, and even humans are part of a sensitive and interdependent, endlessly connected ecosystem. When we see nature in action, we remember that we too, are part of that system. Though we may feel separate at times, we are part of an ongoing exchange with the natural world. When we embrace this interconnectedness, we begin to feel less isolated and more like a necessary part of a natural collective.

RedCliff Ascent is a therapeutic wilderness program, nestled between two mountain ranges in the high desert of Enterprise, UT. We focus on adolescents ages 13-17 who are struggling with various challenges from anxiety and depression, to school abandonment and the need to reconnect with their family. With over 25 years of experience, RedCliff uses a relational model and narrative therapy to drive an outcome and an evidence-based approach. RedCliff Recovery offers an experience like no other through a proven, 12-step, adventure-based wilderness program. For more information, call us today: 801-921-8488.

Resources