This latest book by Interfaith Minister, Starr Regan DiCiurcio, is a guide to nature journaling for all lovers of the natural world. It is an invitation to slow down, observe, get curious, and open to Spirit. Many of us feel closest to Divine presence in nature. Sacred moments are commonly experienced while hiking a mountain, listening to a loon, watching the stars, or feeling the warmth of the sun. How do we enter those moments more fully and elevate our lives? Starr opens a pathway through nature journaling.

For those new to this practice, Dwelling in Wonder provides clear instructions for getting started. Little is actually needed. This is a pursuit that is open to all ages and abilities. It is a wonderful activity to share with families, congregations, schools or book clubs. Nature journaling can also be a nourishing solitary exploration. It is a personal option for recording the reflections of artists, scientists, poets, and writers.

Dwelling in Wonder introduces mindfulness as an enhancing way to journal with step-by-step guidance. There is also a selection of meditations to enjoy. For those who love poetry and wish to create their own poems, directions and examples are given for several forms. Starr includes a variety of motivating images from her own journals, but everyone is encouraged to create in their own unique manner. There are no rules, only suggestions. A treasure trove of 365 daily prompts is offered to help readers relax and restore themselves as they learn.

Dwelling in Wonder is a book of inspiration inviting all readers to deepen their connections to the planet and cosmos through journaling. It is elevating and reassuring in this age of eco-anxiety. As we journal, we raise our level of consciousness. As John Muir Laws wrote in the foreword: “You will find a lot of encouragement in these pages. There are many concrete ideas for your nature journals no matter who you are, where you are, what your age, your interests, or abilities. Starr believes, as I do, that we all benefit from this process, and that all of us can do it. As you develop the tools of mindful journaling, you will also grow in your love of this precious world of wonders. As we all learn to love this Earth with greater wisdom, may we wholeheartedly commit to her protection. We invite you to begin this journey.”

Reviews

“Starr hits one out of the ballpark again (Divine Sparks was another winner!). The book is wonderfully done, incorporating spiritual wisdom from many traditions along with her own beautiful artwork, a prompt for every day of the year, plus pointers on how to make the practice fit into your life. No matter what your level of expertise or whatever condition you may have that you THINK might limit you, Starr gently encourages and guides you to be your personal best. All done in a way that anyone can relate to, and it may also greatly enhance your spiritual life. On a scale of 1-10, this is a 12.” – Claudia G.

“I have been an enjoyer of Nature. I have been looking around and appreciating Nature. Reading Dwelling in Wonder: Nature Journaling as a Spiritual Practice has helped me to become in AWE of Nature. Starr has shared so much in her precious publication. I am filled with inspiration by her knowledge, thoughts and feelings in word and illustration. It is a book that feels good to hold and embrace and peek in at over and over, something always popping out to inspire, motivate, reflect and meditate upon. Her daily prompts for our 12 months brings me even further along in my mindfulness practice. I have become involved in the process of Nature Journaling! Thank you so much Starr! PS I plan to gift this book to friends of course.“ – LA

“Gave it as a gift but now also getting one for myself. The illustrations alone are worth it. The writing just adds more inspiration to connect with nature.” – AP

“I love this book with its beautiful drawings and encouragement to awareness of what is around us. There are also so many resources mentioned and listed for additional mindfulness teachings. Star is an inspired and inspirational writer and artist. Now how about a companion book for our own entires with Starr’s quotes?” – C. Bailey

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About the Author

Starr Regan DiCiurcio is an Interfaith/Interspiritual minister and avid nature journaler who lives in the Adirondack Mountains of Upstate New York. She is also ordained in the Order of Interbeing of Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh. Starr’s work is informed by her Christian roots, Buddhist practice, Irish heritage, and deep love of Mother Earth. Her ministry focuses on nature journaling, retreat facilitation, and spiritual direction. Both Dwelling in Wonder: Nature Journaling as a Spiritual Practice and her award-winning book, Divine Sparks: Interfaith Wisdom for a Postmodern World, are widely available. You can reach Starr at www.StarrRegan.com