Nature religions encompass a diverse array of beliefs and practices that hold the natural world as sacred and spiritually significant. These religions include various forms of paganism, animism, pantheism, and certain practices within more mainstream religions that emphasize ecological spirituality.

Animism: The belief that natural objects, natural phenomena, and the universe itself possess souls or spirits. Found in many indigenous religions, animism posits a spiritual ecosystem where humans are only one component.

Pantheism and Panentheism: Beliefs that either equate God with the forces and laws of the universe (pantheism) or suggest that God permeates all parts of the universe but also transcends it (panentheism).

Shamanism: Often practiced within nature religions, involving communication with the spirit world through ritualistic practices, led by shamans who act as mediators between humans and nature.

Sacred Ecology: Viewing the ecosystem and all life forms as part of a sacred, interconnected system. Practices often include rituals that celebrate the cycles of nature, such as solstices, equinoxes, and harvest festivals.

Prehistoric and Indigenous Roots: Many nature religions draw on ancient practices that predate recorded history. Indigenous cultures around the world have maintained traditions that honor the earth and its ecosystems.

Revival and Reconstruction: In the modern era, there has been a revival and reconstruction of ancient nature-based faiths, often under the broad umbrella of Neo-Paganism, which includes religions like Wicca and Druidry.

Wicca: A modern Pagan religion that promotes free thought and will with the aim of living harmoniously within nature. It includes the worship of the Goddess and the God, and the observance of seasonal festivals known as Sabbats.

Druidry: Focuses on the worship of the natural world, the veneration of ancestors, and the study of Celtic mythology and folklore.

Totemism: A belief system where humans have mystical relationships or kinships with spirits of animals or other natural entities, often seen in indigenous tribes.

Eco-Theology: Discusses the relationship between religion and the environment from a theological perspective. Nature religions often advocate for environmental protection as a spiritual duty.

Environmental Activism: Many adherents of nature religions are actively involved in ecological conservation efforts, seeing it as an extension of their spiritual practice.

Misunderstandings and Stereotypes: Nature religions often face misconceptions and prejudice due to their polytheistic beliefs and practices, which differ from the monotheistic mainstream.

Legal Recognition and Rights: In some regions, practitioners of nature religions struggle for legal recognition and the right to use natural sites for religious purposes.

Nature religions offer a profound connection to the environment through spiritual practices that honor the earth and its cycles. These religions encourage a deep respect for nature, advocating for sustainable living and environmental stewardship as expressions of faith.