As part of our series about 5 Steps That Each Of Us Can Take To Proactively Help Heal Our Country, I had the pleasure of interviewing Cat Hamilton The Animal Naturopath
Cat has spent her life in service to others either through Coaching, Healing or through he deep connection with animals and nature. She lives and breathes her ethos and works to support others to deepen their connection with life and themselves.
Thank you so much for doing this with us! Before we dig in, our readers would like to get to know you. Can you tell us a bit about how you grew up?
You’re welcome! Its a pleasure for me to share with you. I grew up in Scotland in a very close knit community and had a very safe and secure childhood. I was lucky enough to spend a lot of my childhood in the woods playing and exploring. When I was 11 my world changed when I was uprooted and moved to England for my dad’s job and I never regained the sense of belonging I had as a child.
Nature has been a source of solace for me and finding mindfulness helped to deepen my sense of
connection to life that I lost as a child because of differences is accent and people not understanding me or
even being willing to listen to what I had to say. This was a shock after being so accepted and secure in Scotland, and I re-established my connection through nature and mindfulness practises.
Is there a particular book that made a significant impact on you? Can you share a story or explain why it resonated with you so much?
When I sat my first Vipassana course - 10 days in silence meditating and observing sensations in the body, I read The Power of Now. It touched me in a really deep way and brought more into my Vipassana practise. It gave me the ability to stop and look at the present moment and realise that nothing was happening that needed fixed and that most of the problems I was dealing with were in my head and compounded because of lack of certainty or direction as to which way to turn. It helped me to be more present and aware of my mind, and how the changes in thoughts have very impactful effects on everything around me.
Do you have a favorite "Life Lesson Quote"? Do you have a story about how that was relevant in your life or your work?
I love the quote ‘ We can’t solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them’Albert Einstien For me this is a great reminder to step back and take a different perspective on situations and to ask myself ‘what can I do differently to resolve this’?
It is obvious through watching others how we repeat patterns and expect things to be different, but we won’t get different results by repeating the same mistakes over and over again. It takes a lot to step back and to observe yourself and you behaviours and sometimes extra support is needed as the patterns can be so ingrained, that we are not even aware of them or their repetitive nature.
How do you define “Leadership”? Can you explain what you mean or give an example?
For me Leadership is conscious and for the good of all concerned. Leadership is about setting an example and a standard that has taken all people, nature and any other forms of life that may be impacted by their lead into consideration. Too many leaders have historically come from their own ego and agendas.
To be a true Leader takes courage, vulnerability, trust and strength to follow their instincts and not be swayed by other people familiar opinions that keep things the way they’ve always been, when they are obviously not working. Again, that takes me back to “if you keep doing the same thing, you will get the same results’.
A great Leader has the opportunity to change things on a deeper level according to their ability to follow through on their convictions, provided that they are the best for the whole and not selfish in nature.
In life we come across many people, some who inspire us, some who change us and some who make us better people. Is there a person or people who have helped you get to where you are today? Can you share a story?
For me it is indigenous communities that inspire me. When I learned about the Native American Indians and the Aboriginals and how they lived so closely to the land and in tune with nature I was in awe. They showed us how to live consciously, and harmoniously, to take only what we need and to respect the land for the gifts it brings when considered and honoured.
Most of us have lost that ability and instead destroy nature and create imbalances throughout the world that have long lasting impact on the planet, the health of our soil and the biodiversity that is necessary for balance and harmony in nature.
Ok, thank you for all that. Now let’s move to the main focus of our interview. The United States is currently facing a series of unprecedented crises. So many of us see the news and ask how we can help. We’d love to talk about the steps that each of us can take to help heal our county, in our own way. Which particular crisis would you like to discuss with us today? Why does that resonate with you so much?
Such a big question. I see all of the crisis’s the world faces as a result of the same thing - not seeing beyond the bigger picture and trying to fix symptoms instead of the deeper causes. Most of the problems are due to seeing the world and life and isolated incidents, but they are just the results of the lack of consideration for the impact decisions and choices have on every level of life. The ripple effect of a decision can be far reaching and the lack of consciousness or consideration about that is what creates the challenges we all face now in whatever country we reside in.
Taking a birds eye view of life and challenges gives us the opportunity to consider all factors and issues involved can show us the possible implications of going ahead with a decision. Life seems to be covered in sticking plasters to solve a symptom while disregarding the deeper cause. Putting things in place to counter drug abuse does not stop drug abuse. Finding out why people take the drugs in the first place can be a place to start from. What need is not being fulfilled that led them to this behaviour?
Fighting against anything is fighting against a symptom. If there is a demand for something whether it is deemed good or bad, it wouldn’t be there unless there was a need. What is the need that is being catered for? Loneliness, sadness, depression, despair, poverty or any number of deeper causes could be the heart of the behaviours, and these are generally not addressed.
This is likely a huge topic. But briefly, can you share your view on how this crisis evolved to the boiling point that it’s at now?
I believe it all starts with a lack of self awareness and a lack of knowledge about the interconnectedness of all of life. When we look at the climate crisis and the impact of pollution on the planet, no-one is taking responsibility and expecting other people to do something instead of them. I don’t think the awareness of the impact of individual behaviours, thoughts, beliefs and ways of living has sunk in.
In lots of ways there can be an apathy and a sense of their being too much to do, however, if we each do what we can from where we are in our own lives, the ripple effect spreads out into our community and circle of friends and family, and we effectively create change from there.
Can you tell our readers a bit about your experience either working on this cause or your experience being impacted by it? Can you share a story with us?
Through my mindfulness practices and interspecies communication I learned to value life and to consider all aspects of my choices and behaviours. Life and nature are naturally harmonious, and live in balance, however it is the so called ‘more evolved’ species of life that creates all the problems we are facing. Humans. Mostly, we run amok through life without consideration of our actions and the impact they have on nature and the planet at large.
We often act unconsciously, causing harm to the very systems that sustain us. Industrial activities, excessive consumption, and disregard for the natural world create imbalances that threaten the harmony of life on Earth.
When I connect with a tree, an animal or just into the essence of the present moment, I am immersed in peace, love and harmony. I learn the perspective of all living creation and develop a new understanding.
To some this might sound a bit crazy, however, all of life is interconnected and conscious, and we all have the natural ability to tune in telepathically with everything. All of life is impacted and effected by all aspects of itself through the energy it is approached and related too through.
To heal our planet and restore harmony, we must slow down, reflect, and recognise the impact of our words and deeds on all of life as a whole. Everyone we meet is impacted by the energy we bring to our encounters. This is tantamount to fire fighting and not actually impactful or beneficial to a better future or present moment existence.
I feel that it is crucial to recognise that these problems are not insurmountable; they are a call to awaken to a deeper level of awareness. To slow down and consider our footprint on our country and the world around us. Considering things like; what are my actions bringing to the world and are they beneficial or adding to the challenges being faced can be helpful was to assess your plans before acting unconsciously, and dealing with the consequences later.
Ok. Here is the main question of our discussion. Can you please share your “5 Steps That Each Of Us Can Take To Proactively Help Heal Our Country”. Kindly share a story or example for each.
1. Start locally - Healing the planet and our countries starts with healing our own locality. Each community, no matter how small, can make a significant difference. Planting trees, supporting local wildlife, and promoting sustainable practices are steps that contribute to the larger goal of planetary health. By working together, we can create environments where all beings have the opportunity to thrive.
When each person takes responsibility for themselves, their actions and the impact of their decisions and choices on the ‘whole’ we can start to make big changes around the world. Imagine if everyone did the same in their communities, families and friendships. Life could potentially be transformed by such actions.
2. Slow down - Taking time to slow down and reflect is a revolutionary act. By becoming more mindful of our actions, we can begin to make choices that are in harmony with nature. Simple acts, such as reducing waste, conserving water, and protecting natural habitats, can have a profound impact.
Additionally, fostering a sense of gratitude and respect for all forms of life encourages us to act with greater compassion and responsibility. Considering our thoughts, beliefs and behaviours are also impactful and should be given priority otherwise we live the same things over and over unconsciously. When we bring mindfulness and awareness into our life we not only help ourself; we also have an impact on life and nature at large.
3. Recognise the rights of all living beings - Every living being, whether an oak tree or an ant, has a right to exist and thrive. These rights are not bestowed by human law but are inherent in the very fabric of life. Trees provide oxygen, shelter, and nourishment to countless species. Animals, from the tiniest insect to the largest whale, contribute to the biodiversity that keeps ecosystems resilient. When we acknowledge these rights, we begin to see that our well-being is deeply intertwined with the well-being of all other beings.
Before building more houses or ravaging the land for unsustainable projects consider the impact it will have on wildlife habitat, biodiversity and the infrastructure of the area. Going back to the indigenous tribes who lived intimately connected to life, we can learn a lot from their practises and understanding of the web of life and how everything effects everything else.
I am constantly reminded of the profound connections that weave us all together. Life itself is harmonious and perfect in its essence, but it is often human actions, borne out of unconsciousness, that disrupt this natural order. To heal our planet and restore harmony, we must slow down, reflect, and recognise the impact of our words and deeds.
4. Be conscious in your communication with others - Our words have immense power. They can heal or harm, build up or tear down. Conscious communication involves speaking and listening with intention, empathy, and respect. By choosing our words carefully and being mindful of their impact, we can foster positive relationships and promote understanding. This practice extends beyond human interactions; it encompasses how we speak about and to the natural world. When we communicate with kindness and respect, we honour the interconnectedness of all life.
It also benefits our day to day interactions. When we see and acknowledge each other as having a right to life, and a right to our opinions, we allow new ideas to flow. We don’t have to agree with what they say, and we don’t have to make their view wrong and ours right. There is room for all views. Being less protective of ‘me’ and ‘mine’ allows for more perspectives to be heard. Debating, arguing and discounting another’s views is disrespectful and carries the energy of ‘I’m right and you are wrong’.
5. See another’s point of view - Being open to other peoples points of view and understanding their perspective can really change the dynamics of relationships. Most of the time we are reacting to the symptoms being exhibited and do not consider that they are the result of a much deeper cause. Again, this calls for mindful awareness and presence since we are so used to reacting to challenges instead of considering why are they behaving this way and what else is going on for them. This behaviour is indicative of how we communicate globally and the reason we go to war against each other.
Most of the time we are reacting to symptoms and not finding the deeper cause, which is where the solutions can be found.
It's very nice to suggest ideas, but what can we do to make these ideas a reality? What specific steps can you suggest to make these ideas actually happen? Are there things that the community can do to help you promote these ideas?
In my mind, the path to a harmonious world is one of awakening and taking mindful action. It requires us to listen to the voices of nature and to recognise that every being, whether human, animal, or plant, is a vital part of the whole. By embracing the rights of all living beings and understanding our interconnectedness, we can create a future where life flourishes in all its diversity and beauty.
We are going through a rough period now. Are you optimistic that this issue can eventually be resolved? Can you explain?
I am optimistic. I feel that there is a consciousness shift happening and that more people are becoming aware of their impact on life and themselves. It feels like we are going through a process of raising consciousness and awareness of the plight of the countries we live in and the planet as a whole.
The more people who take responsibility and act mindfully, the quicker we will see results.
If you could tell other young people one thing about why they should consider making a positive impact on our environment or society, like you, what would you tell them?
I would ask them to be responsible and considerate of all of life and to understand the consequences of their actions matter.
As a way of creating impact I would suggest they imagine a spider's web: a delicate, intricate structure where each strand supports and strengthens the whole. When one thread is damaged, the entire web is weakened.
All of life is like that. Deforestation, pollution, and the exploitation of animals are not isolated issues; they are disturbances that ripple through the web of life, affecting everything from climate patterns to food chains. Every action has an effect and impact on everything else.
To have the understanding that nothing happens in isolation and that their is a cause and effect element to all situations.
Is there a person in the world, or in the US, with whom you would like to have a private breakfast or lunch, and why? He or she might just see this, especially if we tag them. :-)
I would love to meet Anna Breytenbach. She is an animal and interspecies communicator from South Africa. Her work, gentleness and ethos really touch and inspire me.
How can our readers follow you online?
You can find our more about me and my work at www.cathamilton.co.uk and
This was very meaningful, thank you so much. We wish you only continued success on your great work!
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