Birds, Health, and the Human Spirit

Birding is one of the largest and fastest growing hobbies in the United States. Millions of people venture out into nature every year to observe, photograph, and catalogue the approximately 1000 species found in North America. This allure runs deep through history, with countless examples of birds being used and represented by humans in cultural, religious, and political contexts. In contemporary culture, the publication of books, articles, and other media that explore the relationship between birding and mental health has become increasingly popular. During the ongoing global pandemic we have witnessed an unprecedented increase in the use of outdoor spaces, and birding has captured the hearts of many. What drives this interest? How does it facilitate healing? How can it inform the human spirit?

As part of Houston’s Bird Week, through prepared remarks, experiential activities, and storytelling, we invite the audience to consider the relationship between birds, health, and the human spirit in thought provoking and potentially transformative ways.

Details
Date: Wednesday, September 21
Time: 6:30 PM-8:00 PM
Location: Held virtually via Zoom

Meet the Facilitator

Stuart Nelson, ISH’s Acting President, uses his training in both the sciences and the humanities to guide ISH’s growth and activities. Stuart grew up in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, and attended international schools until college when he attended Rice University, earning degrees in cognitive science, religious studies, and psychology. Stuart has a lifelong connection with birds and won the “Harris County Big Year” in 2019 (296 species) and 2020 (314 species).