| This study explores what is understood about the phenomenon known as the mystical experience in nature. Findings indicate that the mystical experience in nature is phenomenologically different and distinct from general states of religious or spiritual thoughts, feelings, perceptions, or beliefs about nature. The phenomenon does not represent a variation, lesser form of expression, pathological condition, or wishful thinking about these states. However, people who have never experienced the phenomenon usually mistake it for other anomalous phenomena or general states of religiousness or spirituality.; The study empirically validates seven classic dimensions of the mystical experience in nature including physiological and psychological sensations of unity or "oneness," the presence of an "Other," timelessness and spacelessness, noetic knowledge, ineffability, paradoxicality, and strong affect. The mystical experience in nature and/or one or more of the dimensions are widespread among humanity. It may play a significant role in shaping peoples' spiritual relationship with the natural world. People attach deep meaning and significance to the phenomenon and effects include changes to the way in which people understand their place in nature. People reach an understanding and explanation of the mystical experience in nature by examining their cosmological, teleological, metaphysical, epistemological, and ethical assumptions about the natural world. People are more open to all aspects of life, have a greater awareness of the nonmaterial aspects of life, and feel more connected to something beyond themselves in the natural world after they have a mystical experience in nature.; Results indicate that the mystical experience in nature facilitates the formation and expression of environmental spiritual values. It also influences the development and expression of ethical frameworks that govern human interactions with the natural world. The study reveals that mystical experiences in nature may have an influence on environmental policy and management decisions. Finally, while the focus of the study is on intense positive experiences of nature, the study briefly considers intense negative or traumatic experiences in nature. Both types of intense experience may be an adaptive feature of human consciousness. |
