Your Health's Journal

Ecotherapy, also called nature remedy or ‘green therapy’, is the practice of the emergent field of ecopsychology. It has evolved into popularity by T. Roszak. Ecotherapy comes from the notion that humans are part of nature’s life web and that our psyches aren’t isolated from our natural environment. This kind of psychology has its foundation in systems theory and gives humans a way to interact positively with nature.

Many practitioners, even if they aren’t exclusively ecopsychologists, have decided to interweave parts of ecology into their regular, science-based practices. Many science-based practitioners agree that practicing Eco therapy and harmonizing with nature’s Earth systems, can bring forth more mental health benefits. 

Key concepts related to ecotherapy include:

1. Nature Connection: Ecotherapy promotes a deepened relationship with the natural world, recognizing nature as a source of solace and healing.
2. Psychological Benefits: Studies suggest that spending time in nature can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, while enhancing mood, creativity, and overall mental health.
3. Holistic Approach: Ecotherapy often integrates physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of wellness, encouraging a sense of interconnectedness with the environment.
4. Therapeutic Settings: It can be conducted in various formats, including guided therapy sessions, self-directed nature experiences, or structured outdoor programs.
5. Mindfulness and Presence: Practitioners may employ mindfulness techniques to help individuals engage fully with their surroundings, fostering greater awareness and appreciation of the natural world.

-More About Ecotherapy

Ecotherapy is primarily based on the concept that human beings are connected to, and impacted by, means of one’s own natural environment. Researchers have highlighted that connecting with nature produces beneficial and surprising results. In one research study performed by a psychologist known as Terry Hartig, those participating were asked to finish a 45-minute cognitive test that showed mental fatigue.

They had to either stroll through some natural terrain, walk through a busy city, or sit quietly and look at magazines. Those who walked through some type of nature path had less anger and more positive emotions than those who did the other activities. Another research study noticed that those who took a nature walk experienced seventy-one percent less depression in comparison to those who walked around a shopping mall. 

-Additional Benefits

The beneficial effects of nature don’t’ just come from visual effects, but the beneficial effects occur through other senses as well. It was seen in studies that people who listen to nature sounds, like birds chirping or a calming waterfall, had less mental strain than they did with listening to a track that played highway sounds. Scents that were based on fruits resulted in less depressive feelings in humans. Direct touch is important as well when it comes to nature therapy.

One doesn’t necessarily have to be surrounded by greenery to reap the benefits of nature for mental health. Just having a picture image of something relaxing or calming, such as the beach an image of a mountain in Montana, or a green-fused scene from the jungle, can have an overwhelming calming effect. It was seen in some studies that individuals who had a relaxing image at their desks or offices had more job productivity and improved mental health than those who did not incorporate this kind of view into their work lives.

Overall, ecotherapy leverages nature’s restorative powers to support mental health and well-being, emphasizing the importance of a balanced relationship between humans and the environment.

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