Episode 12: The Sound of Birds
A beautiful Robin singing in Autumn
In episode 12 of the Nature Therapy Online podcast, we talk about how powerful the sound of birds can be. Click on the slim black player above to listen.
The idea for this ecotherapy podcast episode was sent to me by Deirdre from Long Island, USA, and I thought it was a wonderful idea for an episode!
Today I start by talking a little about birds. I reflect on the potential therapeutic effects of their sounds, whether singing, cooing, tooting or crawing! We also listen to various different bird sounds whilst I offer you gentle invitations to reflect on their effect on you.
When I recorded this podcast, it really struck me how diverse the feelings that arose in me were. The images that appeared in my mind were so different from each other; some bird sounds brought up memories of cosy winter nights, others the freshness of a spring morning.
For me, most feelings were positive, but I’m aware that that may not be the case for everyone. I love the sound of Seagulls for example. It reminds me of when I lived in the gorgeous seaside town of Musselburgh in East Lothian, Scotland. In particular, I always think of a little seagull chick I watched every morning on the way to the bus stop, sitting on top of the Poundland shop and harassing its poor mother for food (long after it should have fled the nest)! I also (for obvious reasons) think of the sea when I hear gulls; the freshness of the waves.
For many people in Scotland though, seagulls are seen as a pest; an animal that swoops down when you’re not expecting it and steals your chips. I heard recently that in some areas of Scotland, councils are destroying their eggs. I think that’s awful personally; others think it’s necessary. What about you?
Anyway folks, thank you so much for tuning in to my little nature therapy podcast again. I really do appreciate it!
Enjoy nature this week.
Green wishes,
Stephen x
