Deep Ecology in the Enchanted Kingdom of Bhutan

Work That Reconnects meets Mindful Travel

In 2023, I had the joy and privilege of guiding a beautiful group on a very special trip. At the end of October, we embarked on a transformative journey with NAMKHA Trips to the captivating landscapes of Bhutan, where the majestic mountains, the sacred temples, and the unique culture worked as the perfect background for our togetherness as group, and for the profound practices of Deep Ecology & Nature Therapy. It was much more than just a trip, and rather a deep dive into our Selves and a plunge into the waters of Life. It also felt like a prayer in the shape of a trip.

A Dream Come True in the Himalayas

Since I first embraced Deep Ecology through "The Work That Reconnects" and "Active Hope" by Joanna Macy and Chris Johnstone in 2012, a vision began to take shape within me. It was a vision of combining my extensive travels spanning over 100 countries with the profound practices that have profoundly shaped my life.

This dream intertwined my nomadic adventures with the transformative power of Deep Ecology, creating itineraries that would not only showcase my favorite sacred & nature sites explored over two decades, but also follow the rhythm needed to foster the inner growth I aspire to awaken in fellow travelers.

The delight of witnessing this dream being fulfilled with a NAMKHA Trip in my beloved Himalayas has been immensely rewarding. There, we have nourished the principles of Deep Ecology and Nature Therapy in sacred spaces, experiencing a serendipitous alignment of events that unfolded magically throughout the journey. Each moment carried a sense of careful curation, guiding us through a rhythm as enchanting as it was transformative.

A Journey of Reconnection High Above

During this profound journey, we delicately immersed ourselves in practices crafted to deepen our connection with the Earth and with one another. Traversing through untouched valleys and embarking on treks to ancient monasteries, we embraced the revitalizing tenets of Deep Ecology, recognizing our profound intertwinement with all living beings. Could it have been more serendipitous? We found ourselves amidst valleys steeped in the very tradition that influenced Joanna Macy, each breath we took serving as a reunion with the essence of the Life, fostering a profound sense of reconnection.

Favorite Deep Ecology Moment in Bhutan

My preferred Work That Reconnects moment of the trip (and I dare say, probably the practice highlight for everyone) was a very special experience when we did an exercise called “Harvesting the Gifts of the Ancestors.” This transformative activity involved journeying back in time to connect with our ancestors and then forward to consider those who will follow us, before returning to the present moment. For this meaningful experience, I led the group to a sacred lake in Bhutan called Mebar Tso (Burning Lake). Legend tells of the great treasure hunter Pema Lingpa, who proved to be a true emanation of Padmasambhava by plunging into the lake holding a burning butter lamp. Pema Lingpa emerged back from the water with ancient relics and his lamp still burning, proved his true nature, and the lake's profound spiritual energy.

The significance of this site harmoniously complemented our introspective practice. Serendipitously, our experience was enhanced by the presence of a nun on the hill above us, infusing the atmosphere with a deep sense of grounding and expansive peace. As we immersed ourselves in the exercise, spanning generations and dimensions, the sacred energy of the lake below and the serene meditation of the nun above created an environment conducive to profound reflection and connection. When we finished, there was even a soft orb hovering over us, as you can see in the photo above. It felt truly graceful.

Nurturing Deep Ecology Practices

Amidst the tranquil settings of Bhutan’s sacred temples and natural sanctuaries, we embarked on a profound journey of self-discovery and connection with the Earth. Here, we expanded our gratitude, embraced our shared pain for the world, got to see with new eyes, cultivated Active Hope, and readied ourselves to go forth, transformed. This immersive environment provided the ideal backdrop for a transformative encounter with Joanna Macy’s renowned "Work That Reconnects" & Joanna Macy and Chris Johnstone’s “Active Hope,” guiding us through a soul-stirring evolution across the stages of the Work That Reconnects, from which we emerged courageously ready to embark into the future.

Sacred Journey - Bhutan reminding us of the holiness of Life

Enchanted Bhutan: The Perfect Setting

Bhutan, known for its mystical ambiance where Tibetan Buddhist customs thrive and the environment is meticulously preserved, provided a perfect backdrop for our profound spiritual exploration. Immersed in this enchanted kingdom, we found the ideal environment to embark on a deep, transformative journey that harmonized with the spiritual essence and reverence for nature that defines Bhutan. The serene landscapes and vibrant spiritual energy effortlessly complemented our quest for inner connection and growth, making it an impeccable setting for our soulful voyage.

Mindful Traveling with NAMKHA - Meditating under a Boddhi tree in Bhutan

Special Places in the World for Deep Ecology

At NAMKHA, we hold a strong belief in the transformative power of special, sacred, and nature locations across the globe. These spots have a profound influence on our inner growth and personal development as we travel and engage as a small community, connecting with both ourselves and the land we visit. It is our vision to continue fostering trips that expand our consciousness and spiritual essence as we journey through some of the most enchanting, holy, and majestic places worldwide.

Upcoming NAMKHA Trip to Japan in Autumn

I extend a warm invitation to join Namkha Trips for our upcoming adventures, where you can partake in these transformative journeys firsthand. Our next expedition will lead us to Japan, a land rich in culture, spirituality, and natural beauty. Let NAMKHA Trips take you on a journey beyond the ordinary, into the heart of the world’s most sacred landscapes where deep ecology practices and the wonder of nature converge.