Refresh Series: Intro to Ecotherapy
What is Ecotherapy?
Source: vcvoices.org
Ecotherapy is the approach which rests on the idea that people have a deep connection to their environment and nature. Failure to nurture this connection can take a toll on your being, specifically mental health. Spending time in nature can help boost your mood and bring your mind to ease.
Different Types?
Source: wildernessreflections.com
Ecotherapy typically consists of loosely structured activities.
Below are a few examples:
Community gardening and farming: This activity helps build relationships and grow your own produce.
Wilderness Therapy: This teaches coping techniques and therapeutic skills.
Park Perks: Mental health professionals are increasing their recommendation for patients to find time in their week to visit parks and pursue other outdoor activities.
Forest Fawning: This encourages the mindful use of the five senses as you travel through the forest or similar settings.
Animal-assisted Therapy: Playing with these sweet friends such as a dog or cat can help manage stress levels better.
Outdoor Meditation and Yoga: Yoga or meditation help benefit both the mind and body, but it benefits even more when taken outdoors.
Benefits
Source: theconversation.com
Ecotherapy is inexpensive and easy to access. It provides more opportunities to socialize. For example: joining a gardening club, hiking, visiting sites in a group. It also promotes exercise. Exercise can better sleep patterns and soothe anxiety and depression. Ecotherapy increases mindfulness and creates a better balance with stress factors.
Source: almanac.com
Things To Try
Hike
Trash Pickup
Gardening
Stargazing
Read under a tree
Meditate in a forest
Sketch your outdoors experience
Take your regular activities outdoors