Awake in the Wild by Mark Coleman

Awake in the Wild

Mindfulness in Nature as a Path of Self Discovery
by Mark Coleman
Introduction by Jack Kornfield

“Nature deficit disorder” has become an increasingly challenging problem in our hyper modern world. In Awake in the Wild, Mark Coleman shows seekers how to remedy this widespread malady by reconnecting with nature through Buddhism. Each short (two to three pages) chapter includes a concrete nature meditation. Incorporating anecdotes from Mark’s many nature retreats, Buddhist wisdom and teachings, important nature writings by others, and nature itself, the book invites readers to participate in, not just observe, nature; develop a loving connection with the earth as a form of environmental activism; decrease urban alienation through experiencing nature; embody nature’s peaceful presence; and connect with ancient spiritual wisdom through nature meditations.

“In Awake in the Wild, Mark Coleman has done us all a great service. His words carry us along, like a clear-running mountain stream, into the beauty of nature, the power of silence, and the depth of meditative awareness. His great love of the wilderness opens us to the liberating dharma of the natural world. This book is a joy to read.”

— Joseph Goldstein, author of One Dharma: The Emerging Western Buddhism

“This book takes us on a journey to an authentic and joyous freedom. It is a wonderful and important new work that uses nature to illuminate truths that can change our life: the poignancy and the opportunity of transience, the value of loving even that which we cannot control, the importance of opening beyond what we have been comfortably enclosed by.”

— Sharon Salzberg, author of Faith: Trusting Your Own Deepest Experience

“Marc Coleman shows us how mindful awareness tools can open the sacred book of nature and help us to breathe the invigorating air of wakefulness, extending meditation far beyond the cushion and into the great outdoors of life itself. Rooted in the author’s spiritual experience, these practical instructions and insights plumb our innate natural resources, highlight the bigger picture, and illumine the infinite expanse of our hearts and minds.”

— Surya Das, author of The Snow Lion’s Turquoise Mane and Awakening the Buddha Within

Talks and Meditations Based on the Book

Awake in the Wild Events

4 Month Awake in the Wild Immersion Meditation Program

April 5 - June 28

Earth as Refuge, Earth as Teacher

April 22 |9:00 AM - May 13 |10:30 AM PDT

Awake in the Wild: Nature as Refuge, Healer and Teacher

May 10 |9:00 AM - 4:30 PM PDT

Awake in the Wild: Meditation in Nature at Esalen with Mark Coleman and Lori Schwanbeck

May 16 |4:00 PM - May 18 |10:00 AM PDT

“When we attune to nature with sensitivity, we can see just how connected we are. We are always in relationship; we just rarely notice it. From this perspective, everything on this earth, from the spring rains that provide fresh drinking water to the warmth of the sun, is an open-hearted, generous offering.”

Mark Coleman, from Awake in the Wild: Mindfulness in Nature as a Path of Self-Discovery

“In my own life, the combination of mindfulness and time in the wilderness has greatly increased my capacity for joy. Awareness practices taught me how to pay attention and how to wake up to the beautiful world around me. Practicing mindfulness outdoors has exposed me to a deep well of abundant happiness. It is this joy that has inspired me to lead others into the wilderness. It is too much to keep all to myself, and it feels natural to share the joy and blessings of nature.”

Mark Coleman, from Awake in the Wild: Mindfulness in Nature as a Path of Self-Discovery

“Nature is a nurturing environment in which we can begin to open up to emotions that have long been repressed. The spaciousness and openness we feel when we look at the ocean or walk in the mountains can give us a larger container to hold any difficult inner experience.”

Mark Coleman, from Awake in the Wild: Mindfulness in Nature as a Path of Self-Discovery

“Oscillating our attention between our inner feelings and the outward tranquility of the natural world can prevent us from becoming so overwhelmed by our emotions, and support us in staying balanced even in the midst of great difficulty.”

Mark Coleman, from Awake in the Wild: Mindfulness in Nature as a Path of Self-Discovery

“Opening our awareness to the natural world can bring us a balanced perspective between life’s agonies and its ecstasies. When we turn our attention to the beauty of the wild, both outside and inside ourselves, even in the midst of city life, the core of our being comes alive with joy and vitality.”

Mark Coleman, from Awake in the Wild: Mindfulness in Nature as a Path of Self-Discovery