Refresh Series: Ecotherapy Further Information
Additional Information
Ecosystem service has nearly been forgotten due to it having very little value to the majority. People believe these services are provided by nature for free.
This service is the ability to interact with nature to enhance healing and growth.
As many as 1 in 6 adults experience mental health problems.
Mental health issues are the most common disease and it’s on a rise.
Ecotherapy is one of 2020s biggest wellness trends.
This service is therapy lead.
This service focuses on an activity such as gardening, rather than a health outcome.
It takes place in a natural environment.
It involves interacting with and exploring the natural world.
Ecotherapy encourages social interaction.
The key difference between ecotherapy and recreation is the presence of a trained practitioner or therapist.
The therapist actively takes part in the ecotherapy session making it difficult to distinguish between the client and therapist.
The natural setting encourages physical activity.
This activity might provide opportunities to socialize.
Research has shown that loneliness and social isolation are twice as harmful to our health as obesity, physical inactivity, as damaging to our health as smoking 15 cigarettes daily.
Socializing is associated with a higher life expectancy.
Ecotherapy can give a sense of purpose and achievement.
It can also provide structure and routine.
Studies have suggested reduced physiological stress and improvements in anxiety, depression, better wellbeing, and increased social engagement for people with dementia.
Despite increasing reports of the health benefits of ecotherapy, there is still a need for better quality within the scientific evidence to support its effectiveness.