Practices

The Natural Arts Association offers a unique three-day Silent Retreat that provides an opportunity to experience the power of silence as a healing tool. This practice involves being silent for three days, with three meals and three meditations in silence with slow movement and lots of comfort, allowing participants to destimulate their minds and give them a slower, more relaxed environment to process their unconscious thoughts and emotions.

After refining this practice for over 10 years, The Natural Arts Association can confidently say that the Silent Retreat has had the greatest positive impact on their process. This practice is similar to the function of vision quest and Zen practices for cerebral rebalancing, giving the mind an opportunity to process the unconscious and leave participants with a long-lasting peace, clarity, and a deeper knowing of self.

Silent Retreat is offered seasonally to support participants in seasonal transformative practices. Silence can have a profound effect on the brain and overall well-being. Studies have shown that periods of silence can improve brain function and cognitive performance, reduce stress and anxiety, and even promote the growth of new brain cells.

By removing sensory vibrations from the mind, this practice creates space for the arising and observation of thought, allowing for the release of unprocessed feelings and emotions. Silent Retreat is an excellent way to find inner peace and connection, whether through mindfulness meditation or other spiritual practices.

In a world that is constantly moving and filled with noise, silence is a rare gift that can bring about transformative healing. Incorporating silence into our daily lives can lead to a more focused and peaceful mind and deepen our connection to the world around us. 

Experience the healing power of slow and intentional movement with our three-day retreat program. Join us in a natural environment for a journey towards releasing trapped emotions and trauma from your body.

Our retreat includes gentle movements such as yoga, meditation, and walking, allowing you to tune into your internal sensations and emotions. By moving slowly and intentionally, you can release tension and pent-up emotions that may have been stored in your body for years. This approach is based on the idea that trauma is not just a mental or emotional experience, but a somatic one as well.

During the retreat, you will be able to relax and find comfort within the natural environment, enhancing your external connection to nature, and bringing clarity and alignment to your mind, body, and spirit.

Studies have shown that periods of silence can improve brain function and cognitive performance, reduce stress and anxiety, and even promote the growth of new brain cells. 

Sound Medicine is a vibrational and frequency practice that uses Solfeggio binurals, body movement, and meditation. It aims to offer a comfortable, fun way to grow in singing, composition, and performance while promoting healing and personal creative freedom.

Sound Medicine is a program that was created by Sharlene Squire to promote healing using soundscapes, percussion rhythms, and toning. It started in Liverpool, where it worked with schools to develop this method. In 2017, Sound Medicine evolved into vibrational healing using Solfeggio for adults. The program collected groups of women and men who met up on the song lines, stone circles, national parks, community projects, woodland spaces, lakes, and falls. Breathing exercises, meditation, sacred geometry, and binaural frequencies were later incorporated into the program, all in connection with the land. Sound Medicine aims to offer a comfortable, fun way to grow in singing, composition, and performance while removing barriers to personal creative freedom. It is a transformational program for the body, mind, and spirit and is suitable for beginners and sound healing practitioners.

The program is very fulfilling and is a great healing retreat. It is for anyone with a musical interest or a desire to learn sound healing principles. The retreats are in places of outstanding natural beauty and offer a fantastic lineup. Music has been used for spiritual and healing purposes for thousands of years, and it has been shown to have a range of healing effects on the brain. Music can help to reduce anxiety, depression, and stress by lowering cortisol levels and increasing the release of dopamine and endorphins.

We also use Binaural beats which are a form of auditory illusion that can be used to promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and improve focus and concentration. Binaural beats work by presenting two different tones, one in each ear, at slightly different frequencies. The brain creates a third tone that is the difference between the two, which can be perceived as a rhythmic beat. This phenomenon is known as the frequency-following response.

While the exact mechanisms behind these effects are not yet fully understood, it is thought that they may influence brainwaves and neural activity in different regions of the brain. As such, binaural beats represent a promising area of research for improving mental and physical well-being.

The Fibonacci sequence, a mathematical sequence found in nature and sound waves alike, is closely related to the Solfeggio frequencies, a set of six frequencies believed to have specific healing properties. For example, the frequency of 528 Hz, associated with healing and DNA repair, is derived from the sum of the fifth and sixth numbers in the Fibonacci sequence. This connection suggests that the principles of mathematics and geometry may be intimately connected to the healing properties of sound frequencies.

Singing or toning is a powerful tool that can improve posture, breathing, and circulation, as well as boost the immune system. Singing has also been shown to be an effective form of stress relief and mood enhancement.

We also offer sound baths, a form of meditation that uses various instruments to create vibrations that promote deep relaxation, reduce stress, and calm the nervous system. Sound baths have been shown to stimulate the body's natural healing processes, promoting physical and emotional well-being.

Overall, our program is designed to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual healing and well-being through the power of music and nature. Whether you're looking to reduce stress, or improve your practice, boost your immune system, or simply find a sense of connection and community, our program has something for everyone.

An Index of the nine frequencies used in sound medicine:

1. 174 Hz - "Foundation" - Helps to release physical and emotional pain and promote a sense of safety and security.
2. 285 Hz - "Expansion" - Encourages growth, transformation, and new beginnings.
3. 396 Hz - "Liberation" - Facilitates the release of fear, guilt, and other negative emotions.
4. 417 Hz - "Change" - Helps to undo negative patterns and bring about positive change.
5. 528 Hz - "Transformation" - Promotes healing and DNA repair and helps to bring about positive changes in life.
6. 639 Hz - "Connection" - Enhances communication, relationships, and feelings of love and compassion.
7. 741 Hz - "Awakening" - Stimulates intuition, creativity, and self-expression.
8. 852 Hz - "Transmutation" - Helps to remove blockages and negative energy, and facilitate spiritual growth.
9. 963 Hz - "Divine Consciousness" - Promotes spiritual enlightenment and unity consciousness.

Somatics is a field that focuses on studying the body's internal sensations and movements. By learning to pay attention to our bodily sensations, movements, and emotions, we can gain insight into the way our bodies function and interact with the environment.

Addressing the physical body can unlock emotional and psychological aspects of trauma as well. Slow, intentional movement practices have become increasingly popular in recent years as a way to release trapped emotions and trauma from the body. By engaging in slow, gentle movements such as yoga, meditation, and walking, individuals can tune into their internal sensations and emotions, allowing them to release tension and pent-up emotions that may have been stored in the body for years.

Starting your day with morning yoga can have a range of positive effects on your body and mind. Practising yoga in the morning can help set the tone for the day ahead, promoting a sense of calm, focus, and balance. It can also increase energy levels, promote circulation, improve flexibility and strength, and reduce feelings of anxiety and stress. By taking time for yourself in the morning and engaging in mindful, movement-based practice, you can start your day feeling centred and grounded, better equipped to handle whatever challenges may come your way.

 

Beyond their physical and psychological benefits, certain practices, such as the fetal position, shaking, deep breathing, and somatic pendulation, can have positive effects on the brain. The fetal position creates a sense of safety and control, aiding in healing and trauma release. Shaking helps discharge excess energy and alleviate symptoms of recent trauma. Deep breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing anxiety and improving mood. Somatic pendulation activates the body's self-regulation mechanisms, releasing tension and trauma. We Are Nature retreats foster a deep connection to nature, utilizing these practices to promote overall well-being and enhance the brain's capacity for healing and resilience.

Basic coaching is a process that can be applied to various areas such as career development, personal growth, relationships, and health and wellness. This type of coaching can help you achieve your goals and improve your performance. A coach works with you to identify your strengths and weaknesses and develop a plan of action.

Co-counseling is a peer support system where two people take turns listening and counseling each other. It can be a powerful tool for emotional healing and personal growth when done in a safe and supportive environment.

Eye gazing is a practice where two people hold eye contact with each other for an extended period of time. This practice can help foster deeper connections between individuals and improve empathy, communication, and emotional intimacy.

Emotional literacy is the ability to recognize, understand, and effectively manage our own emotions, as well as understand and respond to the emotions of others. It allows individuals to communicate effectively, establish healthy relationships, and navigate the complexities of interpersonal interactions.

Integration refers to the process of combining different parts or aspects of something into a unified whole. In the context of personal development or therapy, integration often refers to the process of integrating different aspects of oneself, such as thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, into a coherent and harmonious whole.

Forums provide a platform for people to exchange ideas, opinions, and information on a particular topic or subject. It allows individuals to engage in discussions, ask questions, and share knowledge with others who have similar interests.

The philosophy of Aikido is centered around the principle of non-violent resolution of conflict and the cultivation of inner peace. It emphasizes the importance of developing a strong mind-body connection and cultivating a sense of inner calm and centeredness.

"Mushindo" is a concept created by Tetsutaka Sugawara, a Japanese martial artist and founder of the Mushindo Kempo style of martial arts. It refers to a state of mind in which the practitioner is fully present in the moment, free from distraction.

Cold water therapy, an ancient practice embraced by diverse cultures, offers a myriad of benefits for the body and mind. Immersing oneself in cold water, whether through cold showers, ice baths, or cold plunges, stimulates numerous physiological responses that can invigorate and rejuvenate. Cold water therapy improves circulation, reducing inflammation and promoting faster recovery from physical exertion or injury. The exposure to cold water also boosts the immune system, enhances cardiovascular health, and increases metabolic activity, leading to improved energy levels and weight management. Moreover, cold water therapy can strengthen mental resilience, as it helps regulate the release of stress hormones and promotes a sense of calm and mental clarity. It can serve as a powerful tool for managing stress, improving mood, and enhancing overall well-being. Embracing the chill of cold water therapy is an act of self-care, an opportunity to tap into the body's innate healing capacity and experience the revitalizing effects that ripple through both body and mind.

Massage, a timeless healing art practiced across cultures, offers a multitude of benefits for the body, mind, and spirit. Through skillful touch, massage releases tension and promotes relaxation, relieving muscular aches and pains. It improves circulation, enhancing the flow of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body, and boosting the immune system's response. Massage also stimulates the release of endorphins, natural pain-relieving and mood-boosting chemicals, leading to a sense of well-being and reduced stress levels. Additionally, it can improve flexibility, range of motion, and posture, while reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality. Beyond the physical, massage provides a nurturing and therapeutic space for emotional healing, fostering a profound connection between the giver and receiver. It is a holistic practice that nurtures the body, restores balance, and invites a deep sense of relaxation and rejuvenation.

Energy healing, a profound practice that taps into the subtle energies of the body, holds a range of benefits for holistic well-being. By working with the body's energy fields, such as the chakras or meridians, energy healing promotes balance, vitality, and harmony. It can help release energetic blockages, allowing the life force energy to flow freely, which in turn supports physical, emotional, and spiritual healing. Energy healing techniques, such as Reiki or acupuncture, can alleviate pain, reduce stress, and enhance relaxation. They facilitate the body's natural healing mechanisms, boost the immune system, and promote overall well-being. Moreover, energy healing has the potential to address imbalances at the root level, supporting personal growth, self-awareness, and spiritual development. It fosters a deep connection with oneself and the universal energy, allowing individuals to tap into their inherent healing power and experience a renewed sense of vitality and wholeness.

The Natural Arts Association promotes a deep reverence for and connection to the natural world. This idea is rooted in the belief that all living things are interconnected, and nature is sacred and worthy of reverence. Practitioners of nature worship may engage in various practices to honor and celebrate nature, such as outdoor festivals, conservation activities, and meditating in natural settings.

Nature worship has a long history and is found in many different cultures and spiritual traditions worldwide. By practicing nature worship, individuals can cultivate a deeper sense of connectedness, peace, and harmony with the natural world. Spending time in nature has numerous positive effects on the brain. Studies have shown that being in nature can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as improve cognitive function and boost overall mood.

In the bustling tapestry of life, where chaos and demands consume our every moment, meditation emerges as a sanctuary of stillness and a gateway to inner peace. Originating from ancient traditions, this timeless practice invites us to embark on a profound journey of self-discovery and transformation. Through the gentle art of meditation release the burdens of stress and anxiety, and cultivate a heightened sense of awareness and clarity. With each breath, we create a sacred space within, where we can explore the depths of our being, unravel the illusions of the ego, and awaken to the eternal essence that resides within us. Meditation offers a refuge from the noise of the world and opens the door to a path of serenity, harmony, and profound connection with ourselves and the Earth.
 

Listening meditation is a form of meditation that involves focusing on sound as a way of cultivating mindfulness and presence.
Rather than focusing on the breath or bodily sensations, as in other forms of meditation, listening meditation involves intentionally directing attention to the sounds around us.
This might include the sounds of nature, the hum of traffic, or the chatter of people nearby.
The goal of listening meditation is to cultivate a state of deep listening and presence, allowing us to connect more fully with our surroundings and the present moment.
By focusing on sound, we can cultivate a sense of calm and spacious awareness, tuning in to the rhythm of the world around us and letting go of distractions and worries.
Listening meditation can be practiced anywhere and at any time, making it a simple yet powerful way to cultivate mindfulness and deepen our connection to the world around us.

Observation meditation is a form of mindfulness meditation that involves observing one's thoughts and feelings without judgment or attachment.
During observation meditation, the meditator sits quietly and simply observes the thoughts and sensations that arise in their mind and body.
Rather than getting caught up in the content of their thoughts or trying to push them away, the meditator simply notices them as they come and go, watching them with curiosity and interest.
The goal of observation meditation is to cultivate a state of detached awareness, where one can observe their thoughts and feelings without getting lost in them.
This can help to reduce anxiety and stress, increase self-awareness, and promote emotional regulation. By observing one's thoughts and feelings without judgment, it becomes possible to develop a greater sense of clarity and insight into one's own patterns of thinking and behavior, and to make more conscious and intentional choices in life.

Sound meditation is a type of meditation that uses sound to induce a meditative state.
It can involve listening to sounds such as chanting, singing bowls, gongs, or other instruments, or producing sound through one's own voice or instruments.
The sound is used as a tool to help the practitioner focus their mind and relax their body, which can lead to a deeper meditative experience.
Some practitioners believe that sound meditation can help to balance the body's energy, release tension and stress, and promote healing.
Sound meditation can be practiced alone or in a group setting.

A mantra is a word, phrase, or sound that is repeated during meditation or prayer as a way of focusing the mind and creating a sense of calm and inner peace.
Mantras are often associated with traditional Eastern spiritual practices, such as Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, but they can be used by anyone, regardless of their religious or cultural background.
Mantras are typically chanted or repeated silently to oneself during meditation, and they may be repeated a certain number of times or for a certain length of time.
Some mantras are believed to have specific spiritual or healing properties, while others are simply used as a way of quieting the mind and connecting with a deeper sense of inner wisdom and intuition.
Repeating a mantra can help to shift one's focus away from distracting thoughts or external stimuli and bring about a state of deep relaxation and mental clarity.
By repeating a specific word or phrase over and over, the mind becomes more focused and the body becomes more relaxed, allowing the meditator to access a deeper level of consciousness and spiritual awareness.

Moving meditation is a form of meditation that involves physical movement, often combined with mindful awareness or focused attention on the movement itself.
It can include practices such as yoga, tai chi, qigong, walking meditation, or any other type of physical activity performed with awareness and intention.
Moving meditation is a way to bring mindfulness into everyday activities, and can help to cultivate a greater sense of presence, focus, and relaxation.
By combining movement and meditation, practitioners may also experience physical benefits such as increased flexibility, strength, balance, and energy.

Visualization meditation, also known as guided imagery, is a type of meditation that involves creating a mental image or scenario in your mind's eye.
During a visualization meditation, a practitioner is guided to imagine a specific image or scene, often with a specific goal or intention in mind.
This might involve imagining oneself in a peaceful natural setting, visualizing success in a particular area of life, or picturing oneself as healthy and vibrant.
The practice is believed to have a number of benefits, including reducing stress and anxiety, improving focus and concentration, and promoting a sense of calm and relaxation.
Visualization meditation is often used in conjunction with other types of meditation, such as mindfulness or loving-kindness meditation, to deepen the practice and enhance its effects.

Electromagnetic meditation is a form of meditation that involves focusing on the electromagnetic energy within and around the body.
This energy is produced by the movement of charged particles, such as the flow of ions in nerve cells and the magnetic fields produced by the heart.
During electromagnetic meditation, a practitioner may focus on visualizing or feeling this energy, often through techniques such as breathwork, visualization, or movement.
Some people believe that electromagnetic meditation can help to balance and harmonize the body's energy field, promote healing, and enhance spiritual awareness.
While there is limited scientific research on the effects of electromagnetic meditation, some studies have suggested that it may have benefits for reducing stress and anxiety and improving overall well-being.

Emptiness meditation is a form of meditation that aims to cultivate a state of mental clarity and stillness by focusing on the concept of emptiness or lack of inherent existence.
The practice is rooted in Buddhist philosophy and emphasizes the impermanence and interdependence of all phenomena.
Through the cultivation of awareness of emptiness, practitioners aim to reduce the influence of ego-based mental constructs and find a deeper sense of peace and freedom from suffering.
Emptiness meditation can be practised in a variety of ways, including through analytical contemplation, visualization, and direct experience of emptiness through the practice of mindfulness. The practice of meditation has been found to have profound effects on the brain, leading to various positive changes in its structure and function. Research has shown that regular meditation can increase the thickness of the prefrontal cortex, the area associated with attention, decision-making, and emotional regulation. This suggests that meditation enhances cognitive abilities and emotional well-being. Moreover, meditation has been linked to a decrease in the size of the amygdala, the region involved in processing fear and stress responses, indicating a reduction in anxiety and stress levels. Additionally, studies have demonstrated that meditation promotes neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to reorganize and form new connections, which contributes to improved learning and memory. The practice also enhances the activity of the default mode network, a network involved in self-reflection and introspection, leading to increased self-awareness and a greater sense of empathy and compassion. Overall, the effects of meditation on the brain highlight its potential to foster emotional resilience, mental clarity, and overall well-being.