Throughout 2024, the International Ecopsychology Society (IES) hosted a series of Deep Conversations led by Dr. Tina Asherae Fields. These sessions were designed as spaces for profound dialogue, distinct from traditional seminars, enabling meaningful exchanges among participants. With members from over 20 countries and diverse languages, these conversations stood out for their ability to foster intercultural connection around applied ecopsychology.
The Deep Conversations revolved around four key themes: Ecotuning and Ecotherapy, Ecopsychology in Organizations, Ecopsychological Education, and Ecopsychology in Social Arenas. Each session not only explored theories and practices from the field but also served as a space for personal and collective reflection. Below is a summary of this enriching journey.
1. Ecotuning and Ecotherapy: Healing the Bond with the Earth
The first session, held in January 2024, focused on exploring the role of ecotuning and ecotherapy in restoring the bond of love between humans and the Earth. Participants shared practices such as dance, contemplation, engaging with the Genius Loci, and celebrating natural cycles. These methodologies not only enhance personal well-being but also foster resilient communities. However, participants also addressed risks, such as the ancestral fear of the primordial and the misconception that well-being can only be found in pristine natural settings, perpetuating the idea of humanity’s separation from nature.
2. Ecopsychology in Organizations: Transforming Work Environments
In April 2024, the second session focused on applying ecopsychological principles in workplace contexts. Discussions included programs such as regenerative leadership, ecoliteracy, and project design that benefit individuals, communities, and the Earth. Challenges identified included organizational resistance to adopting these perspectives and the need for evidence-based interventions. Despite these obstacles, participants emphasized that every activity fostering interconnection is a seed for change.
3. Ecopsychological Education: Learning with Mind, Body, and Spirit
The third session, in September 2024, explored how ecopsychological education can transform teaching and learning processes. This approach integrates mind, body, and spirit, promoting meaningful connections with nature and others. Participants highlighted the importance of decolonizing educational approaches and adapting practices to urban contexts. Experiences shared included using screens to connect children with nature and involving families in these processes.
4. Ecopsychology in Social Arenas: Community Regeneration
In November 2024, the fourth session examined the impact of ecopsychology on social interventions. Discussions highlighted how these practices can foster both ecological and social regeneration, promoting a renewed sense of community and belonging. Challenges included managing cultural conflicts and building sustainable alliances in diverse contexts.
Participatory Methodology
Each session was conducted in language-specific groups (Spanish, English, Italian, and Portuguese) facilitated by IES leaders. Guiding questions were used to stimulate dialogue and collective reflection, and Council principles were employed to encourage empathetic listening and authentic expression. The integration of technological tools, such as real-time subtitles, ensured linguistic and cultural inclusion.
Personal and Collective Impact
The Deep Conversations allowed participants to deepen their connection with nature and with each other. Concrete practices were shared that can be implemented in organizational, educational, and community contexts, highlighting ecopsychology’s regenerative power to heal the relationship between humans and the Earth.
Future Projections
Among the ideas that emerged was the need for more research and dissemination on the benefits of the human-nature bond. Additionally, the potential to integrate ecopsychology into new areas, such as public policy and regenerative urban planning, was identified.
These Deep Conversations demonstrated how intercultural and nature-centered dialogue can catalyze profound transformations. By strengthening the human-nature bond and fostering more conscious communities, these conversations have planted seeds of change that will continue to flourish in the years to come.
In 2025, IES will continue to facilitate spaces for sharing and learning, with a commitment to co-creating a world where all species can thrive together. We look forward to seeing you at the upcoming conversations!
Upcoming Deep Conversations for 2025
Here are the dates and themes for 2025. These Deep Conversations are open to IES members. You will receive the Zoom link a week before each event.
Deep Conversation 1: New Year’s Singing Circle with Dr. Tina Asherae Fields
- Date: January 13, 2025
- Time: UTC 16:30 – 18:00
The first Deep Conversation of 2025 will be special: it won’t be spoken but sung! Together, we’ll sing to the Earth to warm our hearts and connect with nature’s regenerative energy. This event is a unique opportunity to celebrate the New Year and strengthen our connection as the IES international community. Send your songs with English and Spanish translations in the chat during the event.
Deep Conversation 2: The Animated World
- Date: April 21, 2025
- Time: UTC 16:00 – 18:00
Share stories of mystical or spiritual experiences you’ve had in nature or with non-human beings.
Deep Conversation 3: Practices to Calm the Nervous System
- Date: September 22, 2025
- Time: UTC 16:00 – 18:00
Listen and share ecopsychological practices that help manage difficult times.
Deep Conversation 4: Topic to Be Announced
- Date: November 17, 2025
- Time: UTC 17:00 – 19:00
Send your ideas for this topic to tfields@naropa.edu!
