Eco-therapy, also known as nature therapy or green therapy, is a form of therapy that uses contact with nature as a means to improve physical and mental health and well-being.
What are the benefits of eco-therapy?
There is growing evidence to support the efficacy of eco-therapy whenever it comes to mental health benefits, with studies showing that time spent in natural environments can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression and show improved mental health overall. Nature exposure has also been shown to increase self-esteem and self-compassion while reducing rumination and negative thought patterns. The full effect that being surrounded by nature has on human health is not something that we can be certain of, but it is clear that it has a pretty big effect on people whenever it comes to both physical and mental illness.
Eco-therapy can be an effective treatment for a variety of mental health conditions, including:
Anxiety disorders
Depressive disorders
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
Eco-therapy can also be beneficial for those who are struggling with addiction, as it can help to reduce cravings and promote sobriety. And spending time in nature has been shown to improve physical health by reducing blood pressure, heart rate, cortisol levels, and overall life satisfaction.
How can I get started with eco-therapy?
Eco-therapy can take many different forms, from hiking and gardening to animal-assisted therapy, and even eco-therapy vacations. There are many ways to get involved in eco-therapy, and the best way to find what works for you is to experiment with different activities.
If you’re interested in hiking or spending time outdoors, there are a number of apps and websites that can help you start planning your eco-therapy sessions. If gardening is more your speed, consider joining a community garden or starting a small garden of your own. You can also look into animal-assisted therapy programs in your area, or even take an eco-therapy vacation.
There are some mental health professionals that offer eco-therapy as part of their treatment plans. However, you don’t necessarily need to see a therapist to get started with eco-therapy if you’re more comfortable getting started on your own.
No matter what form of eco-therapy you choose, the important thing is to get out there and give it a try!
The Different Types of Eco-Therapy
There are a number of different types of eco-therapy, each with its own set of benefits. Here are some of the most popular forms of eco-therapy:
Hiking and Spending Time Outdoors
One of the best ways to enjoy eco-therapy is to get out into nature and go for a hike. There are a number of apps and websites that can help you find hiking trails near you, such as AllTrails, Gaia GPS, and Wikiloc. Once you’ve found a trail you’d like to try, make sure to dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. And don’t forget to pack some snacks and water!
Hiking is a great way to get some exercise and fresh air, and it can also help reduce stress levels and improve your mood. If you’re feeling anxious or depressed, spending time outdoors in nature can be especially helpful.
Gardening
Gardening is another popular form of eco-therapy, known as horticulture therapy, that can have numerous benefits for your mental health. Studies have shown that gardening can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. It can also increase levels of certain hormones, such as serotonin, that are known to improve mood.
If you don’t have a lot of space for a garden, you can start small with a few potted plants on your balcony or porch. Or you could join a community garden in your area.
Animal-assisted Therapy
Animal-assisted therapy is a type of therapy that involves interacting with animals. Studies have shown that this type of therapy can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. It can also improve social skills and increase feelings of happiness and well-being.
If you’re interested in animal-assisted therapy, you could volunteer at a local animal shelter or visit a farm. You could also look into adopting a pet from a shelter or rescue organization.
Wilderness Therapy
Wilderness therapy is a type of therapy that takes place in nature. It can involve activities such as hiking, camping, and journaling in the wilderness. Studies have shown that wilderness therapy can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. It can also improve social skills and increase feelings of happiness and well-being.
If you’re interested in wilderness therapy, you could go on a hike or camping trip with friends or family. You could also look into programs that offer wilderness therapy experiences.
There are many different types of eco-therapy, but all of them involve spending time in a natural environment and interacting with the natural world in some way. If you’re looking for ways to improve your mental health and experience more positive emotions, nature-based interventions like eco-therapy may be worth considering.
Tips for Practicing Eco-Therapy Safely
Before you head out into nature, it’s important to remember a few safety guidelines. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your eco-therapy experience:
- Make sure you have the proper clothing and equipment for the activity you’ve chosen.
- Be aware of your surroundings and know what to do if you encounter a dangerous animal or plant.
- Stay on marked trails and paths, and avoid areas that are off-limits.
- Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, and take breaks often to rest and rehydrate.
- Let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return.
By following these simple safety tips, you can enjoy all the benefits that nature-assisted therapy has to offer!
