What is Rewilding?
In the complex tapestry of our world, the term "rewilding" beckons us to reimagine our connection with the natural world. At its essence, rewilding encapsulates two profound realms: conservation rewilding and human rewilding, each offering distinct but intertwined narratives.
Conservation Rewilding: Nurturing Wilderness
In the world of conservation biology, rewilding is an approach focused on restoring and reclaiming natural ecosystems, fostering biodiversity, and allowing landscapes to flourish in their natural state. It involves reintroducing native species, reviving ecological processes, and minimizing human interference to enable nature to regenerate and thrive. Through the reintroduction of keystone species and the restoration of natural processes, rewilding projects have showcased remarkable success stories across the globe.
Examples of rewilding from a conservation perspective:
The Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus) is an endangered wild cat within the Lynx genus endemic to Southwestern Europe.
Yellowstone National Park, United States: Yellowstone National Park stands as one of the most renowned rewilding triumphs. The reintroduction of wolves in 1995 triggered a trophic cascade, significantly influencing the behavior of elk and subsequently leading to the rejuvenation of forests and the restoration of stream habitats (Ripple et al., 2001).
Oostvaardersplassen, Netherlands: In the Netherlands, the Oostvaardersplassen rewilding project has demonstrated the creation of a self-regulating dynamic ecosystem through the reintroduction of large herbivores such as Konik horses and Heck cattle (Vera, 2009). This initiative has yielded a diverse and self-sustaining habitat, mirroring natural processes and functioning without human interference.
Knepp Estate, United Kingdom: Transformed from traditional agriculture, the Knepp Estate in the United Kingdom has exemplified the potential of rewilding by allowing natural processes to shape the landscape and reintroducing species such as longhorn cattle, Exmoor ponies, and red and fallow deer. As a result, the estate has experienced a significant increase in biodiversity, including the resurgence of rare and endangered species (Trees, 2018).
Great Eastern Ranges, Australia: Across eastern Australia, the Great Eastern Ranges rewilding initiative has prioritized habitat restoration and the creation of wildlife corridors to connect fragmented habitats and restore ecosystems. This concerted effort aims to facilitate the movement of native species and enhance overall biodiversity (GER, 2022).
Iberian Lynx Recovery Program, Spain and Portugal: In Spain and Portugal, the Iberian Lynx Recovery Program has been instrumental in the conservation of the critically endangered Iberian lynx. Through captive breeding, reintroduction into suitable habitats, habitat restoration, and prey conservation, this program has contributed to the gradual recovery of the Iberian lynx population in the region, marking a significant conservation success (Rodríguez & Calzada, 2019).
These examples underscore the pivotal role of rewilding in ecological restoration, emphasizing the importance of a conservation-centric approach in nurturing healthy ecosystems and fostering biodiversity.
Human Rewilding: Rediscovering our Intrinsic Connection
On the other hand, human rewilding transcends the boundaries of conservation. It is a journey of rediscovery—an exploration into our innate connections with the natural world. It invites us to shed the layers of modernity and rekindle our primal instincts and wisdom, seeking to bridge the gap between our contemporary lives and our ancestral heritage. Human rewilding is the process of reconnecting with our primal instincts, ancestral skills, and the natural world. By embracing rewilding, we tap into the wisdom of our hunter-gatherer ancestors and seek to live in harmony with the Earth.
Here are some key examples of rewilding practices for modern people:
Debris shelter made by our co-founder, Matthew Hale, in Washington state.
Foraging and Wildcrafting: Engaging in foraging for wild edible plants, mushrooms, and herbs reconnects us with the land and its bounty. By learning to identify, harvest, and prepare wild foods, we honor the knowledge passed down through generations and develop a deep appreciation for the ecosystems around us.
Primitive Skills: Mastering primitive skills such as fire-making, shelter building, and natural cordage crafting allows us to become more self-reliant and resourceful. These skills not only provide a sense of empowerment but also foster a profound understanding of the natural materials and forces at work.
Nature Immersion and Tracking: Spending time immersed in nature and learning to track wildlife cultivates a deep awareness of our surroundings. By honing our observational and tracking abilities, we develop a heightened sensitivity to the rhythms of the natural world, enhancing our connection to the environment.
Ancestral Movement: Exploring ancestral movement practices like natural running, climbing, and barefoot walking reconnects us with the physical prowess and adaptability inherent in our species. These activities encourage a more holistic and functional approach to movement, drawing inspiration from the diverse landscapes that shaped our ancestors.
Rewilding Community: Building resilient and interconnected communities rooted in principles of mutual support, cooperation, and sharing strengthens our social fabric. By fostering a culture of reciprocity and collective well-being, we emulate the social structures that sustained human tribes for millennia.
Nature-Based Mentality: Embracing a nature-based mentality involves rekindling our spiritual connection to the Earth and all its inhabitants. This may involve practices such as mindfulness in nature, animal symbolism, and rituals that celebrate the cyclical rhythms of the natural world.
These examples illustrate the diverse avenues through which individuals can embark on the transformative journey of rewilding. By integrating these practices into our lives, we can rediscover the profound interconnectedness between ourselves and the wild, nurturing a more vibrant and sustainable existence.
Conservation and human rewilding have often been approached as distinct and sometimes conflicting endeavors, with conservation focused on protecting and preserving natural environments and species, while rewilding seeks to restore wildness and natural processes to landscapes and, in some cases, to human lives as well. However, the two are not mutually exclusive. In fact, they can complement each other in powerful ways, especially when considering rewilding through the lens of human experiences. In this forthcoming blog post, we will delve into the concept of rewilding for humans, particularly through the context of wilderness schools, exploring how reconnecting with nature and embracing wildness can profoundly impact our lives and the environments in which we live.
Rediscovering Our Roots: Exploring the Essence of Rewilding Through Wilderness Education
In the intricate tapestry of modern living, a silent yearning often stirs—a call to reconnect with something primal, something deeply rooted in our essence. Rewilding isn’t merely about escaping to the wild; it embodies a profound shift in perspective, urging us to rediscover our innate connection to the earth. This article delves into the multifaceted essence of rewilding from the perspective of wilderness schools, exploring the significance of nature connection, rites of passage, and the study of ancestral skills in the context of human rewilding.
Our co-founder, Ansley Roberts, rock climbing in Joshua Tree National Park.
Human rewilding transcends the superficial narratives of escaping to the wild. Seeking the thrill of adventure through rock climbing, river rafting, mountain biking, hiking, backpacking, or motorcycling can be an avenue towards a rewilded life; however, modern outdoor recreation often overlooks the importance of truly connecting with nature and its rhythms. As Richard Louv so eloquently expresses, "Rewilding is a journey that invites us to shed the layers of modernity and rediscover the innate connections we have with the natural world." This journey isn’t merely about seeking solace or a rush of adrenaline in nature; it’s an invitation to peel away the societal conditioning that distances us from nature, unveiling the primal instincts and wisdom woven within our very essence.
In embracing rewilding, we bridge the temporal chasm between our ancestral heritage and the contemporary era. Jon Young beautifully articulates this sentiment, stating, "In rewilding ourselves, we bridge the gap between our ancestral heritage and the present, reclaiming our place within the intricate web of life." It’s not merely about romanticizing the past but about weaving the threads of ancient wisdom into the fabric of our modern lives. Through rewilding, we navigate the interwoven narratives of our past and present, seeking to reintegrate ourselves into the tapestry of life, where the whispers of the wind and the footprints of animals become our guides. Human rewilding invites us not only to observe nature but to participate in its rhythm. It’s about relearning the language of the land.
Bear tracks in the sand.
Amidst the complexities of modernity, nature connection stands as the heartbeat of rewilding—a vital rhythm often overlooked in our bustling lives. Florence Williams poignantly captures this essence by expressing, "Nature connection isn't just about being outdoors; it's about being present and engaged with the living, breathing world around us." It’s not merely about occupying space in nature but about engaging with it in a deeply immersive and mindful way. To do this, one can start by cultivating a sense of awareness and gratitude for the natural world. This can be achieved by practicing mindfulness while spending time outdoors, such as focusing on the five senses: taste, touch, sight, smell, and sound while you are in nature. Additionally, participating in activities that require attentiveness, such as wildlife observation, plant identification, or even simple tree hugging, can deepen the bond with nature. By approaching nature with reverence and a willingness to listen and learn, one can embark on a journey of profound nature connection that enriches the mind, body, and spirit.
When we truly connect with nature, we realize that our existence is not separate from it. Instead of looking at nature through an ego-centric worldview, we begin to recognize that we contribute [negatively, positively, or neither] to the balance of ecosystems. As Robin Wall Kimmerer beautifully articulates, "When we truly connect with nature, we discover that we are not separate from it but an integral part of its tapestry." Nature connection becomes a language—an intimate dialogue where the rustling leaves, the babbling brooks, and the myriad life forms around us offer teachings and wisdom that guide our reconnection with the natural world. This immersive relationship with nature isn’t merely a sensory experience; it becomes a transformative journey—an exploration into the interconnectedness of all life. After embracing a deep connection with the natural world, individuals often find themselves drawn to reclaiming ancestral skills. This reclamation process is a meaningful journey that offers a profound understanding of our roots and the wisdom of our predecessors.
Students making hoop drums out of elk and cow hide.
The study of ancestral skills stands as a bridge between the echoes of the past and the whispers of the present—a testament to our enduring relationship with the natural world. Tom Brown Jr. encapsulates this beautifully, stating, "Ancestral skills are not relics; they are timeless wisdom, offering us pathways to resilience, self-reliance, and a deeper connection with the earth." These skills, spanning from firecraft to shelter-building, foraging to tracking, hold within them the keys to resilience and self-sufficiency.
By delving into these ancient practices, we not only acquire practical abilities but also immerse ourselves in a deeper understanding of our place within the intricate web of life. Jon Young aptly captures this essence, expressing, "Through tracking, we learn the language of the land, deciphering its stories written in tracks and signs left by our wild kin." Tracking becomes more than a skill; it transforms into a journey of deciphering the hidden narratives etched into the landscapes, connecting us intimately with the lives and stories of the creatures around us.
Rainwalk Rewild co-founder, Matt, gives a friction fire demonstration at our monthly Wilderness on Tap lecture series.
Wilderness schools act as custodians of the rewilding journey. These sanctuaries of learning provide immersive experiences that foster a deeper bond with nature. They offer practical teachings in wilderness skills, nurturing not only the study of ancestral wisdom but also providing a space for individuals to embody and practice these ancient crafts. Through experiential learning and mentorship, wilderness schools guide participants—both young and old—along this transformative path. They provide a structured environment for nature connection, rites of passage, and hands-on engagement with ancestral skills. In doing so, these schools become catalysts for rekindling our relationship with the natural world.
By immersing individuals in nature's embrace and facilitating a deeper understanding of ancestral practices, wilderness schools play an integral role in human rewilding. They serve as gateways, guiding and empowering individuals on their journey toward rediscovering their place within the intricate web of life.
In the intricate tapestry of human existence, rewilding stands as a profound invitation—a call to rediscover the ancient bonds that tether us to the earth. Through this exploration, we've unveiled the layers of rewilding: from reconnecting with nature’s rhythms to embracing the heartbeat of nature connection, traversing the pathways of rites of passage, and delving into the timeless wisdom of ancestral skills. Rewilding isn’t merely a journey; it's a transformative odyssey—a return to the core of our being, inviting us to shed the layers of modernity and embrace the innate connections with the natural world. Each step along this path offers not only practical skills but a deeper understanding of our place within the intricate web of life.
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References:
Ripple, W. J., Beschta, R. L., Fortin, J. K., & Robbins, C. T. (2014). Trophic cascades from wolves to grizzly bears in Yellowstone. Journal of Animal Ecology, 83(1), 223-233.
Vera, F. W. M. (2009). Grazing Ecology and Forest History. CABI.
Trees, A. (2018). Wilding: The Return of Nature to a British Farm. Picador.
Great Eastern Ranges. (2022). About us. Retrieved from greateasternranges.org.au/about-us/
Rodríguez, A., & Calzada, J. (2019). Iberian Lynx Ex Situ Conservation: An Update of the Official Program. In J. Vargas-Angel, D. Rodríguez-Teijeiro, J. U. Torres-Molina, & I. F. Fernández-García (Eds.), Advances in Conservation of the Iberian Lynx (pp. 219-233). CRC Press.
