The year 2024 has been deeply transformative for the IES community. Through the Open Spaces cycle, “Building Mycelium”, we came together to reflect, share, and co-create from our ecopsychological roots. These spaces allowed us to strengthen our global network, integrate meaningful learnings, and plant seeds for a regenerative future. Inspired by the metaphor of the mycelium—those invisible networks that connect and sustain life in ecosystems—we explored our interconnection with the Earth and with one another, remembering that every individual action can nourish a greater whole.
Mycelium 1: Our Projects Around the World
In April, we kicked off the cycle with a vibrant gathering that connected us to ecopsychological projects from different parts of the globe. We listened to stories of transformation and regeneration led by members of our community, ranging from ecopsychology festivals to local practices of eco-tuning. This gathering showcased how ecopsychology is being applied in diverse contexts and how our local actions contribute to a global impact.
CHECK OUT THE LINK TO OUR GLOBAL ECOPSYCHOLOGY PROJECTS HERE
Mycelium 2: Sharing Ecopsychological Practices
In June, we delved into practices that bring ecopsychology closer to everyday life. From ocean literacy to mindfulness in nature, we explored applied tools to cultivate a deeper connection with the environment and ourselves. This space became a living laboratory where each participant shared and learned strategies to integrate ecopsychology into their professional and personal practices.
Mycelium 3: Spirituality and Nature
August took us on a journey inward, exploring the relationship between spirituality and nature. We reflected on our personal and universal connection with the cosmos, integrating ancestral wisdom and contemporary practices. Through guided meditations and introspective exercises, we remembered that spirituality is intrinsically linked to our relationship with the Earth and that living with this awareness invites us to act with love and care.
Mycelium 4: Group Eco-Tuning Workshops
In October, we worked on designing group workshops that integrate inner and outer nature. Guided by an ethic of belonging and reciprocity, we explored how to create experiences that align body, mind, and Earth. This gathering provided a practical space to develop facilitation skills and create group dynamics that invite others to reconnect with the web of life.
Mycelium 5: Love in Action
We closed the year in December with a profoundly reflective gathering oriented toward the future. Through dynamics inspired by Joanna Macy’s work, we explored the concept of “Love in Action” as a guide for our actions in 2025. Each participant committed to a regenerative action, collectively building a path to transform our relationship with the Earth—and with ourselves—into a daily practice of love and care.
What 2024 Leaves Us
These gatherings not only celebrated individual and collective achievements but also deepened our awareness of interdependence as a transformative force. They reminded us that, like the mycelium, our connections have the power to regenerate ecosystems, communities, and hearts.
A heartfelt thanks to all participants in these spaces and to the facilitators: Raquel Alvarez, Salvuccio Irrera, Ana Castillejo, Claudio Pereira, Natalia Meroño, Ana Bermejo, and, of course, Belén Martín for her companionship, songs, and magic.
WHAT WILL 2025 BRING US?
Click here to discover our 2025 Proposal!
