Outrage + Optimism

The Deep Time Walk: Celebrating Stephan Harding 1953-2024

Oct 1, 2024

Stephan Harding, a pivotal figure in the climate community, was a Deep Ecology Research Fellow and a celebrated educator. This heartfelt tribute delves into his transformative teachings on our connection to nature, exploring the deep time perspective of Gaia. Topics include the cosmic origins of Earth, the evolution of life, and the critical role of bacteria in climate regulation. The conversation also features a guided meditation to cultivate a deeper bond with nature, encouraging listeners to embrace their intrinsic relationship with the environment.

51:55

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Episode guests

Stephan Harding

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Quick takeaways

Stephan Harding's Deep Time Walk illustrates the significance of understanding Earth's geological history in fostering environmental stewardship and connection to nature.

His teachings inspire a duality of joy and sorrow, prompting a deeper commitment to ecological responsibility amidst the climate crisis.

Deep dives

The Legacy of a Great Teacher

Stefan Harding significantly influenced the field of environmental education, particularly through his teachings at Schumacher College. His concept of the Deep Time Walk encourages participants to physically embody the geological history of the Earth, walking a distance that represents 4.6 billion years of time. This experience highlights how humans occupy only a tiny fraction of Earth's history, illustrating the importance of understanding our planet's timeline. The impact of his teachings extends to many individuals involved in the climate movement today, shaping a generation of leaders focused on environmental issues.

Intro

4min

The Joy and Sorrow of Connection to Nature

2min

Exploring Deep Time: From Education to Cosmic Origins

3min

Origins of Earth and Life

7min

The Evolutionary Symphony of Earth

29min

Connecting with Gaia: A Guided Deep Time Meditation

6min

Since Dr Stephan Harding passed away in September 2024, he has been deeply mourned by the climate community, many of whom have been touched and inspired by his life and work. In honour of his extraordinary contributions to our understanding of this beautiful planet, we’re re-releasing the Deep Time Walk, narrated by Stephan, and which has already been downloaded over a million times.

This re-release includes an introduction by hosts Paul and Tom, and Tom’s eulogy, which he shared at Stephan’s memorial service on 30th September.

Stephan Harding was a founding member of Schumacher College where he was a Deep Ecology Research Fellow, celebrated teacher and author.

As a celebration of this remarkable and beloved man, we hope you enjoy his history of Gaia, told through immersive sound. We encourage you to set aside time to sit comfortably, relax, and learn to “walk well into the life of Gaia” as Stephan puts it. Stephan has had a massive influence on the climate movement, inspiring global leaders to shift their world view towards a Gaian view. We have the privilege of sharing an exercise of that shift with all of you.

Enjoy and RIP Dr Stephan Harding.

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Christiana + Tom’s book ‘The Future We Choose’ is available now!

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Mentioned links from the episode:

DOWNLOAD: The Deep Time Walk App

CHECK OUT: The Deep Time Walk Field Kit

LEARN MORE: Deep Time Walk Project

Dr. Stephan Harding

Deep Ecology Research Fellow | Senior Lecturer in Holistic Science

Author of Animate Earth and Gaia Alchemy

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