In this powerful episode of The Snake & The Land, Rebecca Cavender takes us on a journey into the intimate, spiritual relationship we can cultivate with the Earth and its elements. She shares reflections on the deep wisdom of nature, exploring how we can learn from the land, animals, and plants around us. From embracing animism and recognizing the life force in all things to finding community with the land and our ancestors, Rebecca inspires us to slow down, listen, and reconnect with the natural world.
Key Highlights:
The Humble Heart: Rebecca discusses the importance of approaching life with humility and reverence for the Earth, recognizing that the land is not ours to own, but that we belong to it. She encourages listeners to apprentice with the land, becoming humble students of nature’s cycles and rhythms.
The Land as Our Teacher: The land teaches us respect, patience, and the ability to listen without assuming or seeking something in return. This practice extends to our relationships with people and other beings. By learning to feel the spirit in nature, we learn to see the beauty and essence in all life forms.
Feeling Not Alone: Despite the busyness of life, Rebecca reminds us that we are never alone. Nature is filled with life and spirit, waiting to connect with us. Whether it’s the wind on your skin, the sun warming you, or the pulse of the earth beneath your feet, these elements are always present, offering their quiet support and wisdom.
The Wisdom of Our Ancestors: Rebecca draws on personal memories of her mother and grandmother, who both practiced animism by connecting deeply with their gardens and plants. Rebecca reflects on how this deep connection with nature can lead us to the wisdom of our ancestors, which still lives within us.
Practical Tips for Reconnecting with Nature: For those living in urban spaces or feeling disconnected, Rebecca suggests starting small by nurturing a plant and engaging with it. She shares how even plants can teach us the power of presence, connection, and respect for life.
The Call to Listen to Nature’s Rhythms: As we move into the Year of the Snake, Rebecca invites listeners to tune into the cycles of the Earth and listen to the wisdom that surrounds us. The Snake, in particular, symbolizes transformation, renewal, and shedding what no longer serves us.
A Personal Touch: Recorded on a snowy night in North Vancouver, Rebecca shares the beauty and power of the land she’s on, honoring the Squamish people whose ancestral land it is. She speaks with deep gratitude for both the land and her listeners, inviting them to walk with her on this journey of reconnection.
Episode Conclusion:
Rebecca wraps up with an invitation to journey alongside her in the coming episodes, offering more stories and connections that will help listeners remember who they are and embrace the wisdom of the land and the snake.
Quotes from This Episode:
"We belong to the land, none of this belongs to us."
"The elements are here, they are alive, and they’re always reaching out to us."
"You are not alone; life is so animated and so filled with spirit everywhere."
"Maybe you start with a plant. It might feel silly, but you’re not alone. They’re alive."
Next Episode:
Stay tuned as Rebecca dives deeper into the teachings of the Snake and continues to explore ways we can connect with the land, our ancestors, and the wisdom within.
Connect with Rebecca:
Website: https://rebeccacavender.com