We all carry within us a longing for wilderness, for pure, unspoiled nature.

We yearn to understand the language of the forest, of the animals, of nature, and also to reconnect with our own inner nature.

The wilderness wisdom, as I have learned it, allows us to experience this deep connection. It's not about "survival," about simply surviving in nature, but about feeling at home there.

My first encounter with this wisdom took place on a wilderness trip in the far north of Canada, where our group found ourselves in a life-threatening situation. A member of the Tlingit tribe, the indigenous people of this wild region, saved our lives with her wilderness knowledge. I recount this story in my book, "Connected with Animals."

This journey connected me with the spirit of the animals.

Afterward, I had the privilege of learning this traditional wisdom myself, guided by teachers such as Tom Brown, Jon Young, Lynx Vilden, and others.

I became a student and ally of the wilderness.

Then, after seven years of apprenticeship, my first teacher encouraged me to write down what I had learned in a book.

My book, "Connected to the Wilderness," introduces the ancient wisdom of the connection between humankind and nature with many practical instructions. It guides readers on paths that lead to an enriching experience of nature.

This is about a broadened and deepened perception of the world around us. A feeling of joy and vitality arises when we experience the Earth as a living organism to which we belong.

This knowledge bestows upon us increased resilience and vitality.

Nature makes us happy.

Where we cook and eat, we feel at home. A wonderful way to feel at home in nature, or even right in the garden behind the house, is by cooking over a fire. My book, "Wild Cuisine," contains many extraordinary recipes for enjoying the aroma of the fire, the taste of the food, and the company of others, whether alone or with others.

This knowledge of wilderness cooking also informs my seminars, group tours, and workshops.