HEATHER THOMAS: Enlightenment regarding the interconnectivity and interdependence of all living things is the purest example of synchronicity. There are millions of actions happening every moment that are maintaining the balance of our ecosystem and ultimately our existence on this planet.

We rarely give the smallest actions much thought because we either don't believe they matter, or because don't see the direct link to us. But with an open mind and knowledge of theories like that of The Butterfly Effect we can develop a new sense of awareness that will allow us to experience the flow of synchronicity. This 'behind-the-scenes' power is both fascinating and exciting! Take just a moment to reflect on how the environment affects plants, animals, and even people, on so many levels.

There is an entire biological discipline which studies the adaptation of organism's physiology to environmental conditions, called Ecophysiology or Environmental Physiology Notice the difference in the way you feel when it's time to get out of bed on a beautiful sunny day, versus a dark and rainy morning. Similarly, on a physical level, you may experience difficulty breathing when you are in high altitudes or when the air is very humid and thick. Significant changes in temperature and environmental conditions impact us mentally, physically and energetically. Some people are even afflicted with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) also known as seasonal depression. Even though the exact cause of seasonal depression is still unknown, some contributing factors result from reduced amounts of sunlight in the fall and winter, which in turn cause a drop in serotonin (effects mood) and melatonin (effects sleep). For more information about SAD visit the Mayo Clinic website

Another illustration of environmental synchronicity is The Butterfly Effect. This concept has been around since 1890, but was popularized in 1961 by meteorologist, Edward Lorenz. His research proved that when the butterfly in Brazil flapped its wings it might start-off some kind of chain reactions that ultimately could cause a tornado in Texas. Though the idea of a butterfly causing a tornado may be difficult to accept, it is not that difficult to grasp the idea that even some of the smallest and seemingly insignificant events can cause a chain reaction that leads to major changes. More information about The Butterfly Effect and the Environment

Here are a couple of things to think about if you're wondering how synchronicity is directly connected to our sustainability on Earth?

- What would happen to our food supply if all the ocean life died because the water was contaminated?

- Would the woodland animals survive if they were all displaced because of deforestation?

- How would humans, plants and animals be protected from the sun or air be purified without trees?

- What would we do for food if there were no plants, animals or fish left?

With the recent increase in environmental consciousness, there is a greater awareness of how precious the environment is, and how it impacts our daily lives. We have the ability to make changes and find satisfaction in our contribution. Much of the battle in effecting change is about understanding the synchronicity connection. What kind of chain reaction are you going to start?