What is Ecotherapy?
Dated: 13 December 2023
At its core, ecotherapy is a beautifully simple and natural practice — the act of engagement in nature with the intention of nurturing healing and growth within ourselves. Ecotherapy invites us to find comfort and strength in the healing embrace of nature.
The Roots of Ecotherapy:
Coined by Theodore Roszak in 1992, ecotherapy is the applied practice of Ecopsychology, representing the world’s oldest form of mental health support. Indigenous cultures have practised and modelled eco-therapeutic principles for millennia, grounded in the knowledge that we as humans are intricately connected to nature.
Returning Home: Nature’s Evolutionary Bond:
Nature is more than a poetic notion for us humans; it’s woven into the fabric of our evolutionary DNA. Over two million years, our relationship with the natural environment has been integral, shaping our well-being at the cellular level. This profound influence is now affirmed by a wealth of scientific studies, all unequivocally supporting the positive impact of human-nature interaction.
Scientifically Supported Benefits of Ecotherapy:
Backed by an abundance of scientific evidence, the following list highlights the compelling benefits of ecotherapy:
- Stress Reduction: Nature promotes relaxation and reduces stress
- Improved Mental Health: Enhances mood and reduces symptoms of mental health disorders
- Physical Well-being: Encourages physical activity for overall health
- Increased Creativity: Linked to improved problem-solving and creativity
- Better Concentration: Enhances attention and focus
- Boosted Immune System: Strengthens the immune system
- Connection and Social Support: Fosters community and social bonds
- Emotional Resilience: Contributes to emotional strength and coping
- Mindfulness and Presence: Encourages mindfulness and being present
- Positive Hormonal Changes: Leads to positive hormonal shifts, reducing stress and enhancing mood
These subtle yet powerful outcomes underscore the holistic advantages of embracing nature as a therapeutic.
Ecotherapy in Practice: A Quick Tree Connection
To experience the transformative power of ecotherapy, engage in this simple tree connection practice.
Start by approaching a sturdy tree with mindful intent. Feel the rough texture of its bark beneath your fingertips and observe its grandeur as it reaches toward the sky. Take a moment to explore the delicate intricacies of its branches, each holding untold stories of seasons gone by.
Find a comfortable posture—whether you choose to sit, stand, or lie down—letting the natural contours of the environment cradle you. In this tranquil space, draw strength from the silent teachings of nature. Allow the tree’s steadfast presence to serve as a grounding force, and in this short yet powerful moment, anchor yourself to its healing energies. Embrace the wisdom of the tree as your guide toward tranquillity and balance.”
Unearth Your True Nature:
At Back to Nature Ecotherapy, we consistently support people to discover profound connections and heightened well-being through simple, nature-based experiences. Ecotherapy doesn’t require wilderness adventures; its benefits unfold through straightforward, everyday practices accessible to all.
In essence, ecotherapy is a transformative journey back to our roots, a rediscovery of our true nature. It offers tangible benefits for everyone and serves as a universal pathway to holistic well-being.
If you’d like to learn more about ecotherapy or our services, be sure to get in touch with us today.