Discovering harmony: Reconnecting with nature through the art of storytelling


Nancie Knight, Athabasca University

Storytelling of all kinds remains a hugely influential and beloved experience for many. From tales told by the campfire to legends and myths, the prevalence of storytelling in our daily lives is a clear signal of its influence, but what is it exactly that makes it so powerful? Its power lies in its ability to enrich our comprehension, forge shared experiences, and fundamentally shape our perceptions of the world. In a world where environmental destruction, inequity and patriarchal systems continue to harm and oppress, storytelling can be used as a powerful tool for advancing environmental activism and advocating for a more equitable and sustainable world. This study delves into storytelling as a catalyst for change, exploring the interconnectedness of gender, ecology, and storytelling. It highlights how narratives shaped through eco-feminist lenses can challenge existing power structures, nurture a deeper connection with nature, and mobilize collective action by changing perceptions. This study begins by exploring the effectiveness of storytelling in education, drawing on the experiences of educators and activists who use story to spark reflection and guide discussions. The success of storytelling in education can be attributed to its ability to create emotional connections that allow readers to consider their place in the world. However, this power extends beyond the ability to influence the reader. It extends to the storyteller, connecting those with shared experiences and creating a sense of community, belonging, and support. When both the storyteller and the reader become active participants, they become part of the story, creating increased understanding with an emotional connection that can lead to thought-provoking reflections and powerful changes in behaviour. Storytelling then, can be used as a tool to spark reconnection with nature, deepen connections or prompt a further exploration of spiritual connections that challenge existing power structures that harm both women and nature. Storytelling is an established method for creating connection and change, but to truly claim the potency of this tool and demonstrate deep care for the environment, storytellers must be willing to share personal experiences with emotional and meaningful language, placing personal experiences back into the story. By immersing ourselves back into the story, we can bring nature back into the centre of our narratives, emphasizing the interconnectedness of humans, nature, and all life. Before we can truly bring nature back into the narrative, however, we must consider how we tell stories, from the language we use to the style of the story, and finally, by incorporating concepts of ecofeminism into the plot. Building on the examination of story in education, this study explores the use of emotive language and immersive techniques in storytelling to create deeper connections between individuals and nature. More importantly, the paper explores the importance of centring nature in narratives, giving voice to all living beings and challenging existing power structures. Stories that centre nature in the narrative, giving voice to all living things rather than centring the focus on humankind, also have the potential to connect with listeners and demonstrate our vital connection to all beings on Earth. Making these impactful changes to stories and sharing stories that emphasize ecofeminist ideologies can unite our experiences with nature, leading to much-needed environmental actions that will create a more sustainable future for all life.

This paper will be presented at the following session: