The senses are vital for natural navigation and they are the most powerful tools we possess. Unfortunately they come with no instructions. In this chapter we explore some simple ways that we can use them more effectively.
From the marks by our feet to the hills in the distance, the land is always trying to tell us something useful. In this chapter, we look at some of the best ways using the land to find direction, make maps and gauge distance.
There are three levels to using the sun to find direction, ranging from very easy to more challenging. In this chapter, we go through each of them, step by step.
Every part of a tree can help us find our way. In this chapter, we look at navigation clues on all scales, from the woods on mountains, all the way down to the leaves on a single tree.
Plants depend on certain levels of sun, water and nutrients. When we tune to this it helps us to see the compass and maps that plants are making. In this chapter, we look at a variety of plants, including lichens and mosses.
Animals are very sensitive to their environment, their survival always depends on it. This means that their behaviour can reveal lots of clues to direction and help us to understand our surroundings.
In this chapter, we look at a brilliantly fast and easy method for finding direction using the crescent moon. We also take a quick look at the basics of a much more advanced method.
In this chapter, we look at the most effective methods for finding direction using the stars. They include ways of finding north, east, west and south. We also discover a simple way to estimate your latitude using the stars.
The weather is an important part of every outdoors experience and it can help us to navigate. In this chapter, we look at how the wind helps us keep track of direction and the clouds make a map for us.
Natural navigation doesn’t end when we’re in towns. We just need to look for a different set of clues. In this chapter we meet some of my favourite examples.
Deserts and oceans can be physically challenging places for navigation. But the great news is that there are some straightforward methods for finding direction and making maps in these environments. We meet my favourites in this chapter.
Congratulations, you’re nearly there. You’ve almost completed the Beginner’s Guide to Natural Navigation course.
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