Understanding the lived experience of connection to nature

There are multiple theoretical understandings of connection to nature. Often, scholars define a nature as being the outcome process awakening “biophilia.” They may also it maturation or development an “ecological self,” where one sees part oneself, awareness oneself member wider biotic community. Using evidence from longitudinal in-depth interviewing and participant observation, this article examines these differing conceptualizations in lived experience. We find that feeling connected is about affinity for, belongs within, web nonhuman relationships. This sense unstable; be felt then recede according circumstances which people live their competing priorities. The difficulty sustaining consistent close relationships with everyday life presents some challenges hope enabling feel will induce reliable pro-environmental behavior. Relationships fluctuate, necessary examine how can nurtured at every stage life.