Peter Johnson & PiM

Insights Discovery & Deeper Discovery Licensed Practitioners

Lessons from the art of nature

The wonders of nature can easily be seen when one lives in a country where there are distinct seasons. Each season has a charm, each has something that we invariably wish was different. Certainly, in Britain, discussing the weather is a standard part of conversation and often a way to open a conversation too.
 
During the difficulties of the pandemic that has been troubling the world in such a harsh way, the brief conversations between people who know each other, and those who don’t, have been fewer due to the social distancing requirement.
 
In wanting to play my part to avoid becoming ill with, or risk passing on COVID-19, I have been somewhat less social than usual. When I do take exercise, I aim to find quiet places that are open, choosing a time when there are likely to be fewer people about.
 
This has had the benefits that I can walk, and enjoy nature, without having to look out for other people. Sadly, I would normally have spoken to a stranger and passed the time of day – but understandably there is less enthusiasm from both parties to do so at the moment. Consequently, it is easier to get wrapped up in thought, or simply enjoy being outside looking at the amazing things around us.
 
As summer turns to autumn - and still we are restricted - it is all the more poignant experiencing the year slipping away so swiftly.
 
With Insights Discovery one of the parts of Jungian typology is around sensation and intuition. Sensation is where the five senses (sight, sound, feeling, smell and taste) are used with more of a focus on what is happening in the moment. Intuition is where there is more focus on the bigger picture and the future. It is usual for us to possess the ability to use both but there will be a preference for using one as the natural first choice.
 
During my walk I was looking at the changing scenery, noticing the broad canvas that nature was busy painting with changed colours. Just a few weeks ago the main colours of trees were green, yes of varying shades, but still green. Whereas now nature had been busy with a very different palette of colour. Green, gold, bronze, brown, red, rust and yellow with so many extra colours in between. Sometimes using a broad brush sometimes using a fine brush to apply the colours.
 
It was wonderful as I took in the big picture. I was in awe of this masterpiece brightly lit on a crisp and clear, dry and sunny day. The leaves crunching underfoot. It was then that I stopped and enjoyed the moment for a short while. When I started to walk again, I heard the leaves under my feet again, and looked down. I decided to stop and look more carefully at the carpet of fallen leaves that nature had placed under my feet. The colours were truly stunning!
 
I knelt down and started to look at the leaves, looking closer, picking up some leaves and feeling them in my hand, cool to the initial touch. Whilst I didn’t taste the leaves, I did use my other senses to experience more and eventually focussed on just one leaf. The image you see attached is a close-up picture of this leaf. Amazing!
 
It would take a skilled artist some time to replicate this leaf as a painting, yet here at my feet where hundreds if not thousands. I left the leaf where I found it to be enjoyed by others, or a passing squirrel.
 
As I carried on my way it was a good reminder of the big picture of intuition and the value of sensation. Each playing a valuable part in the way we experience things. Each has a valuable contribution to make in the way things could be developed.
 
When we work with others do we notice their different preferences? Importantly, do we value their different preference. And value them enough - or merely get frustrated that the other person cannot understand our perspective?
 
Using the metaphor of a painting - there is enjoyment in standing back and experiencing the whole from a distance. There can also be enjoyment standing close to the picture and examining the detail. For that is what the artist does as the painting comes to life – both near and far views are taken.
 
I wonder if I stand too far back sometimes, and at other times too close?
 
For certain my walk provided the broad landscape and the detail, and, as ever, nature is keen to share lessons when a mind open enough to be taught.
 
A few more thoughts also came to mind that I made a note to review.
 
These are useful lessons I will be applying to my work and a hearty reminder of the power of Insights Discovery, which I know, share, and use so much.
 
My best wishes,
 
Peter