Andrea Hawken, a mother of three and founder of Field Guide Los Angeles, has a unique ability to blend creativity and intention. Her thoughtful approach to life reflects her personal and professional pursuits. We featured Andrea in our "Hour in Nature" series, where she shares her connection with the outdoors and how it inspires her perspective.
What’s your favorite thing to do in nature?
Everything! I love to simply sit and soak it all in—swimming, walking, climbing, breathing. There's a palpable buzz I feel when I'm confronted with something awe-inspiring in nature. We, as beings on this planet, are meant to experience that sensation regularly. We should feel that connection, that wonder, that awe all the time. Yet, modern society often makes us forget it. I cherish those moments—whether I'm standing atop a mountain, gazing out at a vast body of water, or inhaling the scent of pine trees. It’s magical, and yet it’s meant to be so ordinary.
Describe your connection to nature: what positives does it bring to your life?
What are your fondest memories of spending time in nature?
I spent my early childhood in the Philippines, surrounded by nature. My family often visited the beach, where my cousins and I would spend entire days catching creatures, swimming in the ocean, collecting shells, and getting sunburned. Those days felt endless and glorious. I vividly recall one afternoon on a boogie board, letting the waves rock me. As I looked out toward the horizon, a wave of gratitude washed over me—thankful for the gift of being human, for having all my senses, and for the sheer joy of enjoying nature. As a teenager, I felt an immense love for the ocean that still resonates with me today.
Is there a ritual or custom you have to bring nature into your home?
What is your favorite natural scent, and why?
Lemongrass is my favorite scent. It reminds me of my childhood and my home in the Philippines, and now my children say the same—it evokes memories of their heritage too.
Is there a sound in nature that you believe everyone should hear at least once in their lifetime?
The jungles of Costa Rica. One summer, we traveled there with our children, and the tropical rains brought a symphony of happy little critters singing each night. It was SO LOUD and magical. One evening, we returned from dinner to find a howler monkey at our rental, letting out its howls. While it may sound intimidating, these adorable creatures are harmless, leaving you with a sense of awe mixed with a tinge of discomfort—the perfect combination!
