Natural Navigation
Natural navigation is the rare art of finding your way using nature, including the sun, moon, stars, weather, land, sea, plants and animals. It is sometimes referred to as ‘wayfinding’, ‘emergency navigation’ or ‘improvised navigation’. It is possible to navigate naturally on land, sea or even in the air.
Tristan Gooley’s approach to the subject is unique in that he does not view it as a survival skill, but as a means to enrich journeys and connect with the world around us. Fortunately very few of us are likely to ever find ourselves in a survival situation, but we all spend some time outdoors. This time can become fascinating if we take our eyes off the GPS, map and compass for a few moments and ask the simple question, ‘Which way am I looking?’
Formal training in natural navigation is very rare and students of this art are guaranteed to learn things that almost nobody else they come across will know. The courses that Tristan runs are therefore ideal for those who want to learn a unique skill, whether they are undertaking a journey or staying closer to home.
What sort of person comes on the courses?
All sorts! Those who enjoy fresh air and have an open mind. So far there have been artists, soldiers, writers, Navy officers, drainage engineers, lawyers, accountants, police officers, marketing people, IT people, farmers, actors, fathers and daughters, mothers and sons, sailors, builders, midwives… No astronauts yet, but it’s still early days.
The training helps people become better connected to the world around them as they learn skills that few others possess.
