Two years ago this month, my book Awakening to Nature's Beauty was self-published! Last year on the book's anniversary, I had the opportunity to lead a mindfulness workshop with students from my alma mater, Clark University. What a proud moment that reminded me of the lessons I've learned from owning the narrative development process from start to finish.

While finding a traditional publisher is always an option, I wanted to bypass the typical query process. This gave me the valuable opportunity to select the wonderful artist I collaborated with, secure a publish date that felt intentional (Earth Day!) and be selective about who I partnered with to help get the word out.

 

I also knew that I wanted the book to connect to larger social impact conversations related to the wellness benefits of being in nature and the importance of honoring our natural world. The book's accessibility has opened up space to explore topics like mental health, conservation, sustainability and more.

 

In celebration of this milestone, I am sharing this self-publishing beginner’s guide I wrote that can help you get your own project off the ground. No matter the topic, your story deserves to be heard!

By the way, two FREE downloadable PDFs are available for educators, community leaders or any reader who is interested in creating their own guided meditation story or nature circle. Take them with you the next time you are outdoors enjoying this beautiful spring weather!