Eco-Therapy (Nature-Based Therapy) for Mental Health
Benefits of Nature-Based Therapy or Eco-Therapy
While there are many benefits to being in an office, being in natural spaces or green spaces has been linked to lower levels of anxiety, depression, and cortisol levels in the body, decreasing overall stress. It has also been shown to improve concentration and feelings of connectedness. Many clients I have worked with reported that it felt easier to process painful experiences or emotions while sitting or walking together outdoors, giving them more ease and ability to share and cope.
Nature-Based Therapy or Eco-therapy provides the opportunity to connect to yourself and the rest of nature (because we are nature, too) during a therapy session. It gives an experiential space for engaging with the present moment, mindfully connecting with the world around you, sparking curiosity, and processing or learning in different ways. Sometimes, it looks like being still together, finding a place for a sit spot to process, engage with the world, and your experiences and needs. Other times, it may look like walking on a trail together, connecting with your body, and processing, in mind and body, whatever may need some time and attention that day. I also often incorporate intentional activities and experiences with the rest of nature during sessions if they are supportive for your healing.
Nature-Based Therapy allows the integration of the rest of nature as a powerful companion for learning coping tools, growing through therapeutic processing, and having space for healing in every session. It comes from generations of wisdom and practices of global communities and is actively practiced today around the world.
Colorado Weather
The weather in Colorado can change quickly and there are some days or times of day that the temperatures or conditions could make it difficult for us to meet outside. We work together to determine the days that feel useful to be outdoors for a session and when it may feel better to meet at my office or virtually.
Versatility of Eco-Therapy
Nature-based therapy can be incorporated indoors through mindfulness practice, sensory engagement, connection to the body and emotions, and connection to natural settings through visualizations or art, to name a few. I also utilize eco-therapy alongside other modalities, practices, and tools, which allows us to have meaningful sessions both indoors and outdoors.
Adaptability of Utilizing Natural Spaces in Therapy
Eco-therapy allows us to tailor each session to individual needs and abilities. For some people, it can be very helpful to engage in movement during a session as it allows them to feel more connected to their body. For others, sitting in a calming place outdoors allows them to engage with their senses and feel present in the session. I recognize that we are all ever-changing individuals and needs may shift throughout our time together. I also take accessibility into account when selecting the outdoor spaces where sessions are held.
