Other Religions vs. Naturis Sancta: A Focus on the Here and Now
Detachment from the Present: A Feature of Many Other Religions
Traditional religions often encourage followers to focus on distant ideals, afterlife rewards, or transcendent states that can lead to a disconnect from the present moment. Key characteristics of this detachment include:
Emphasis on the Afterlife: Many religions prioritise the promise of heaven, salvation, or reincarnation, shifting attention away from living fully in the present.
Future-Focused Teachings: Followers are encouraged to sacrifice present joys or endure hardships in anticipation of future spiritual rewards.
Rejection of Earthly Pleasures: Certain doctrines emphasise renouncing material or earthly experiences, fostering guilt or unease around enjoying the here and now.
Escaping the Physical World: Spiritual practices may aim to transcend the body or physical reality, often diminishing the value of lived, sensory experiences.
Longing for Perfection: Religions frequently portray the world as flawed or sinful, creating a sense of dissatisfaction with the present and longing for an idealised, future state.
Disconnection from Nature: By focusing on abstract concepts or otherworldly realms, followers may lose their connection to the natural world and its immediate, grounding presence.
This detachment can leave individuals feeling disconnected from their lives, their surroundings, and the simple beauty of being alive in the present moment.
Living in the Now: The Philosophy of Naturis Sancta
In contrast, Naturis Sancta places living fully in the present at the heart of its spiritual philosophy. By embracing the moment and celebrating the here and now, it encourages followers to find fulfilment, connection, and harmony in daily life. Its principles include:
Presence Over Promise: Naturis Sancta teaches that the present moment is sacred and complete, offering everything needed for peace, joy, and spiritual growth.
Reverence for Life: Instead of focusing on an afterlife or future perfection, followers are encouraged to cherish the experiences, relationships, and opportunities unfolding here and now.
Connection to the Senses: Living in the now means engaging fully with the physical world—feeling the warmth of the sun, hearing the rustle of leaves, and savouring the beauty of Nature.
Grounding in Reality: Naturis Sancta embraces the physical world not as something to escape but as a vital part of spiritual existence. Every breath, every step, and every moment of awareness is an opportunity for growth and connection.
Freedom from Regret and Anxiety: By focusing on the present, followers can let go of past regrets and future worries, finding peace in the moment.
Harmonising with Nature: Living in the now fosters a deep connection to the natural world, reminding followers that they are part of a greater whole and must honour their role in the ecosystem.
This focus on the present allows individuals to cultivate mindfulness, gratitude, and a profound sense of being alive.
Visual Contrast: Detachment vs. Presence
To illustrate this contrast visually, imagine two symbolic scenarios:
Detachment from the Present: A person sitting alone in a darkened room, gazing longingly at a glowing portal symbolising an idealised future or afterlife, while the beauty of the world outside goes unnoticed.
Living in the Now: A person walking barefoot through a vibrant forest, fully immersed in their surroundings—feeling the earth, breathing the fresh air, and smiling as sunlight filters through the trees.
An Invitation to Embrace the Moment
Naturis Sancta invites you to step out of the shadows of what was and the illusions of what might be, and instead, to fully embrace the radiant reality of the here and now. By grounding yourself in the present moment, you can find peace, connection, and spiritual fulfilment unlike anything promised by a distant future.
Are you ready to live fully, deeply, and authentically in the now?
