Earth walk around Pangot

7 june 2023

                                     Fig 1. oak forest 

Earth walk First developed in the 1970s, the Earthwalk is a light, refreshing touch of nature. It involves a slow, mindful walk around the Earth, taking in the beauty of nature and appreciating the interconnectedness of all life. This practice is said to help bring people closer to nature and to the planet as a whole.   

As I embarked on my Earthwalk from Pangot to Woodpecker Point at 7:00 in the morning, I was immediately enveloped by the serene beauty of nature. The light, refreshing touch of nature rejuvenated my spirit and connected me with the world around me. ( fig. 1)

As I strolled along the path, the towering banj oak trees(Fig. 2) provided a soothing shade, offering respite from the gentle morning sun. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe as I realized that these majestic trees not only provided shelter for countless birds and mammals but also played a crucial role in maintaining the local climate and water cycle. It was a reminder of the urgent need to preserve and protect our forests, ensuring their continued existence for generations to come.

                      Fig. 2

The vibrant Buransh tree, caught my attention and captivated my senses, I appreciated their significance as a source of nectar for various pollinators and their cultural importance in the region. It was a reminder of the delicate balance of nature and the interdependence between plants and animals.

As I continued my Earthwalk, the distinct aromas emanating from the himalayan musk rose (fig 3 ) and deodara trees delighted my senses. Inhaling their refreshing fragrances brought a sense of calm and tranquility. I couldn't help but admire the contribution of these evergreen trees not only to the overall biodiversity but also to the traditional medicine practices that have been passed down through generations.

                                   Fig 3.  himalayan musk rose

Passing by the himalayan cypress and chir pine , I marveled at their tall and straight trunks, standing as sentinels of the forest. These coniferous trees played a vital role in stabilizing the soil and preventing erosion. Their resilience and strength were inspiring, reminding me of the importance of fortifying our natural environment.

Among the shrubs, sweet scent of the Himalayan musk rose(fig 3) enchanted me. It was a delight to witness the dance of pollinators around these blossoms, adding to the visual charm of the area. The sight of the vibrant berries of the kilmora shrub also caught my attention, showcasing the abundance and diversity of food sources for the local wildlife.

As I observed the various herbs during my Earthwalk, I marveled at their intricate details and unique characteristics. The mock strawberry (fig 4), with its small red fruits resembling strawberries, added a vibrant touch to the forest floor. The aromatic leaves of the Himalayan white rue carried with them a sense of healing and tradition. Each herb, from Paati( fig.5) to Guldavari, Jungli palak, and Kilmora(fig.7), contributed to the tapestry of the herbaceous layer, adding texture and diversity to the landscape.

                              Fig. 4                                                            Fig. 5 

          fig . 6

Engaging with nature in such a mindful way allowed me to fully immerse myself in the ambiance of the natural environment. The rustling leaves, the gentle breeze caressing my skin, and the symphony of sounds that surrounded me all became part of a holistic sensory experience. It was a reminder of the interconnectedness of all living beings and the profound beauty that exists within the natural world. Earthwalks last 45-70 minutes and utilize 4-6 activities. 

As I concluded my Earthwalk at Woodpecker Point, I carried with me the memories and lessons from my journey. The experience deepened my connection with nature and reinforced my responsibility to protect and conserve the environment. It inspired me to continue nurturing my bond with the natural world and to advocate for its preservation, ensuring that future generations can also revel in its wonders.