The Sacred and Nearby Nature in Cities

Urbanization is a global trend. More than 80% of the U.S. population and over 50% of the world’s population lives in cities. Urban lifestyles can bring on stress, and even a sense that life is out of balance. Many people recognize that nature experiences can heal and provide respite, but assume that one must leave the city and travel to wild places to restore and regain a sense of calm.

The Nature Sacred Principle asserts that exposure to outdoor environments, particularly in cities, can deliver transformational benefits to users and surrounding communities. The experience of nearby nature can offer sanctuary, solace, and places for mindful reflection. The term sacred is a notion that is complex, and may be perceived as a connection to religious and spiritual institutions. Some community leaders may not recognize its importance when planning for public green space within their cities.

This report is designed to introduce vocabulary, understanding, and research evidence that supports the idea of small ‘s’, or civic sacred in communities. Though many people appreciate spiritual experiences that are enjoyed in both secular settings or as part of faith-based organizations, there can be limited interpretations of the notion of sacred and its role in the city. Meanwhile both historic and contemporary U.S. literature and traditions remind us of the importance of nature in personal realizations of inspiration, deeper thinking, and mindfulness, as well as meaningful social connections.

In this report we offer an extended set of ideas and language of the sacred in everyday nature encounters. The sources of this information are the Nature Sacred projects (sponsored by the TKF Foundation), scholarly and scientific literature, and focused interviews with public officials. Using the ideas presented here, local planners and managers, civic leaders, and engaged citizens may be able to build support for parks, gardens, and open spaces in their communities as places that are open, valued, and provide many benefits for diverse users.