The Healing Effects of Experiencing Wildlife

Safe encounters with wildlife can deepen our appreciation for nature, and for other people. Craig Foster of “My Octopus Teacher” shares his transformational experiences with the animals of the ocean.Link to episode transcript: https://tinyurl.com/murmd98bEpisode SummaryVenturing into nature and experiencing wildlife can be transformative. Safe interactions with wildlife encourage us to be more in relation with nature, and each other. In this episode, we hear from Craig Foster of “My Octopus Teacher” and how his interactions with sea creatures have changed his life. We also hear from environmental researcher Liz Lev about the effect on our well-being that being in wild spaces provides.How To Do This Practice:The next time you want to explore the outdoors, find the “wildest” space you can think of. Explore the “wild spaces” in your neighborhood or city, and reflect on your experiences with wildlife. Today’s guests: Craig Foster is the director of My Octopus Teacher, and the co-founder of Sea Change Project. Liz Lev is an environmental researcher and research associate at Harder+Company who that specializes in the intersections of environmental and climate justice issues, mental health, and urban planning. Learn more about Craig’s work:https://tinyurl.com/tyctr6fu Follow Sea Change Project on Instagram: https://tinyurl.com/2pzdx73z Watch My Octopus Teacher: https://tinyurl.com/e87edt4b Follow My Octopus Teacher on Instagram: https://tinyurl.com/mryx4zum Learn more about Liz’s research: https://tinyurl.com/y2afdxpr  Read about Liz’s research on wild spaces: https://tinyurl.com/msjsz32t Science of Happiness Episodes like this one:Experience Nature Wherever You Are, with Dacher (Encore): https://tinyurl.com/aj34s585How Exploring New Places Can Make You Feel Happier: https://tinyurl.com/4ufn2tpnWhy We Should Look up at the Sky: https://tinyurl.com/mpn9vj2tHow Birdsong Can Help Your Mental Health: https://tinyurl.com/3tey4rb5Happiness Break Related Episodes:Feeling the Awe of Nature From Anywhere, With Dacher: https://tinyurl.com/y4mm4wu9How to Ground Yourself: https://tinyurl.com/2wv69kwsTell us about your experiences with wildlife! Direct message us or leave a comment on Instagram @scienceofhappinesspod. You can also e-mail us at [email protected] or use the hashtag #happinesspod.Help us share The Science of Happiness!Leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts or share this link with someone who might like the show: https://tinyurl.com/2p9h5aap