Souletude

Souletude sounds like solitude, which means aloneness, which from a holistic perspective could be interpreted as being all-one: part of a larger whole. Solitude suggests we enjoy being alone by choice. In times of solitude, we have time for becoming calm, reflective, and indeed, experiencing being all-one.

 

Souletude also reflects the practicing of our soul, taking care of and shaping our inner wellbeing. Life to me is about practicing our inner experiences in connection with our outer broader natural and social environment. Like being able to play a musical instrument needs continuous practicing, our wellbeing also needs conscious attention in order to thrive. Practicing music is not always easy or nice. Some people don't like practicing scales and chords, for example. Although everybody playing music knows these are the foundations for playing beautiful music. Just like in real life, you'll often need endurance, stamina, and dedication to power through, to deal with frustration, agitation, or even fears to never be a great musician. Practicing music has a lot in common with practicing life. And if you struggle with the challenges of playing your piece in life, there is nothing wrong with you. However,  sometimes you might feel like you need a mentor to get you through the difficult places, and help you practice some of the 'scales and chords'.

 

Although existential wellbeing counseling is based in a psychological therapy tradition, here it is rather used to explore the more 'normal' struggles and existential questions, about life, life phases, death, and grief, and the meaning of it all, which we all encounter on our ‘normal’ pathways though life. 

 

Next to life struggles on the personal level, globalization has led to experiencing emotions related to global scale happenings. Acknowledged, that what seemed normal 20 years ago, is not so normal anymore. We are now facing a world that is afflicted by many crises, from political to ecological. It is sometimes difficult to see a bright future for the world ahead. Many of us struggle with questions on how to engage with the profound challenges and global changes we experience. Following the news nowadays, and trying to stay informed about the world can cause stress, anxiety, and grief. Such emotions may lead us on a personal mission to explore emerging deeper existential questions about the meaning and purpose of our life and our activities in a world in turmoil.

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Souletude also refers to fostering a soulful attitude, enabling you to find a place of stillness where there is space for care, empathy, and joyful perseverance among the hardships of life.

 

Existential wellbeing counseling and nature connectedness share deep philosophical and psychological ties. Both explore meaning, belonging, and the human experience within a broader context. By weaving nature into existential wellbeing coaching— through outdoor sessions, nature-based reflections, and ecological metaphors — you can deepen your sense of wellbeing, meaning, and connection.

 

How can nature connection help foster existential wellbeing?

 

Meaning and Purpose in Nature – Existential counseling helps to explore meaning in your life. Nature, with its vastness and cycles of life, often provides a powerful metaphor for personal growth, resilience, and interconnectedness, helping you to find deeper purpose

 

​Presence and Mindfulness – Nature fosters mindfulness and presence, which are essential in existential counseling. Being in nature encourages you to engage with the moment, reducing stress and existential anxiety and enhancing your overall wellbeing.

 

​Interconnectedness and Belonging – Many existential struggles stem from feelings of isolation. Nature connectedness helps to remind that we are part of a larger ecosystem, promoting a sense of belonging and reducing feelings of existential loneliness.

 

Acceptance of Life’s Cycles – Nature illustrates impermanence, change, and renewal—core themes in existential thought. If you are struggling with loss, uncertainty, or transition, you can find comfort and perspective in the rhythms of nature.

 

Authenticity and Self-Discovery – Existential counseling emphasizes authenticity. Time spent in nature can help you reconnect with your inner world, free from societal expectations, fostering clarity about values and life direction.

 

Eco-Existential Perspective – Environmental concerns often trigger existential distress (i.e. eco-anxiety or solastalgia). Integrating nature and counseling can help you find ways to align your values with actions that contribute to environmental stewardship, reducing helplessness and enhancing agency.

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