Guest Post by Dennis Ernst
& Song by Michael Avery
Walking or hiking in nature has been my passion for many years. I learned early on that it was one of the healthiest things a person can do to improve health and well being. It doesn’t matter what your beliefs are, everyone can recognize and relate to the beauty of nature and feel uplifted by it.
While hiking in or near the Navajo Reservation, I became aware of one of their fundamental beliefs—”the Beauty Way”. Here are some words from a tribal elder:
“The Beauty Way is derived from Hózhó, the Navajo word for the concept of living in a holistic environment of Beauty, Balance, Harmony, and Well-Being.
“This Beauty Way is to be aware and attuned to the essence of Beauty, not to particular forms or superficial aesthetics. The Beauty Way cultivates the skillful means of awareness, intention, community, spiritual practice, and ceremony. These nourish and support us as we walk this path together.
“Walking the Beauty Way is the action of living harmoniously with all of life as it is unfolding; to live in harmony with the Divine, with the natural world, with our own self, with our loved ones, and with our communities.“
I am deeply grateful for this indigenous wisdom and their deep understanding of the Beauty Way. Often their parting words are “Walk in the Beauty”.
I have integrated this idea into my own walks. I created an affirmation that goes like this:
“I walk in the beauty of the Creator.”
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Please listen to Walking in Beauty here on youtube.
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Dennis Ernst is a retired Professional Land Surveyor who now devotes his time to sharing the natural beauty he finds on his many treks through photography, blogs, and poetry. Please visit his website, Dennis Ernst Photography, for a glimpse into his fascinating world.
Michael Avery
Dennis, I’m enjoying your images from the hikes in the Soutwest especially. You’re providing a wonderful service for those of us who stay close to home and our computers. Every day we get out in nature, however, at least for a short walk through trees and natural surroundings. We look for signs and waking dreams as we walk, and we appreciate each other and the beauty surrounding us. “I walk in the beauty of the Creator” is a powerful affirmation. Thank you.