Amie took a year off to travel the world with her husband and 2 young daughters. What they learned about life and the natural world around them is a lesson in the power of disconnecting to reconnect. Amie Heeter is a nature enthusiast, adventurer, and lifelong learner particularly motivated by what sparks our drive for connection and purpose. Drawing from tools found in Eastern mind-body traditions such as yoga and meditation, as well as from modern neuroplasticity research and mindfulness, since 2004 Amie has taught individuals ways to sustain health in the body, cultivate stability and resilience in the mind, and open pathways to the heart and the possibilities life holds. She hosts group courses, private counseling, and regularly leads retreats regionally and internationally. Also a lifestyle photographer, Amie is a visual storyteller who loves to capture the wonder of the world around her. She recently took part in documenting the release of wolves into Isle Royale National Park and photographed an intimate tour in the south of India. She lives in Madison with her husband and two daughters. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx