Eco-Grief & Recovery

Eco-grief, or ecological grief, refers to the profound sense of loss and sorrow experienced due to environmental destruction and its impact on our planet. This grief is deeply connected to our mental well-being as we increasingly recognize the interconnectedness of our health with the health of our surroundings. This realization can leave people with a deep sense of despair, anxiety, and helplessness.

Ecological Grief As a Response to Environmental Change: A Mental Health Risk or Functional Response? is an article by the National Library of Medicine that elaborates further.

Rainbow behind a farmer field with a barn building on the right side

Taking Action to Address Eco-Grief

Taking action to help the environment not only contributes to the planet’s recovery but also aids in our own healing. Engaging in environmental activities can provide a sense of purpose and empowerment, counteracting feelings of helplessness and despair. Here’s how taking action can benefit both the environment and our mental well-being:

=

Empowerment & Agency:

Participating in environmental conservation efforts, such as planting trees, reducing waste, or advocating for policy changes, can restore a sense of control and agency. Knowing that our actions can make a positive difference helps combat feelings of helplessness.
=

Community & Connection:

Environmental activism often involves community engagement. Working alongside others who share similar values fosters a sense of belonging and support, which is crucial for mental health.
=

Hope & Optimism:

Seeing the tangible results of our efforts, whether it’s a cleaner local park or successful conservation projects, can instill hope and optimism. Positive changes reinforce the belief that collective action can lead to significant improvements.
=

Physical Health:

Many environmental activities, like gardening, tree planting, and clean-up drives, involve physical activity, which is known to improve mood and reduce anxiety and depression.
=

Mindfulness & Presence:

Spending time in nature and engaging in environmental activities promotes mindfulness and a deeper connection to the present moment. This practice can reduce stress and enhance emotional well-being.

Eco grief is a natural response to the environmental challenges we face today. By acknowledging our ecological grief and taking proactive steps to support environmental sustainability and recovery, we can also nurture our mental health. As we heal the planet, we heal ourselves, finding hope, purpose, and community along the way. Let’s embrace the power of collective action and work towards a healthier, more resilient world for all.

Our Farm

On April 4, 2024, Life Voice moved to a 4-acre farm in Elora, Ontario. Since our move, we have installed two Flow Hive beehives, created a home for free-ranging chickens, turkeys, and ducks, and planted our first food forest! A major goal of ours is to convert the grass on the land into a permaculture model. Permaculture, which stands for “permanent agriculture,” incorporates biodiversity for sustainability. It’s also rich with metaphors for how we can be in community with one another, utilizing our differences to build stronger networks of support. A documentary is currently being produced about Life Voice and how this small farm is being used to reconnect people back to the land and to each other. You can read more about the progression of our efforts over the coming months on our blog.
roadway in to a farm at sunset

Sponsor Us

Experiencing eco grief?

These Eco Grief cards include ideas to help you feel less alone, and to get unstuck and focus on what you can do to support environmental well-being. We also sell cards for Panic and Anxiety support, as well as mindful Screen Time ideas.

Buy Eco Grief Cards

Buy P.A.S.S. Cards
(Panic Anxiety Stress Support)

Buy mindful Screen Time Cards

Start training for life!
Get in touch today.

 Contact us