My best therapist has been the forest (sorry to my therapists!). For some it’s maybe being stood by and watching a river or being in the sea. Somehow time in nature heals…I hope you find her wisdom too.
Forest = for rest. The healing power of just being in or even looking at nature is backed up by lots of scientific research. There is a strong correlation with cortisol levels before and after being near trees, people healing quicker in hospital if they can see nature from their windows for example.
The feeling I have is that my body evolved being in nature, so it's why I need to connect with nature to feel at ease in this 'crazy', busy, indoor world.
So why is nature so restorative and powerful? Why do I offer walking therapy? If you would like to work in nature with me please get in touch: www.mymindfulcounsellor.com or email mymindfulcounsellor@gmail.com
Theoretical Frameworks for Understanding the Benefits of Human-Nature Interactions
1. Biophilia Hypothesis (Wilson, 1984): This theory suggests that humans have a genetically ingrained need to be in contact with and care for nature. Over millennia, humans evolved alongside the natural world, but recent generations have become more distanced from it. This hypothesis suggests that our connection with nature is essential for our well-being.
2. Attention Restoration Theory (Kaplan, 1995): According to this theory, urban environments demand constant voluntary attention control due to their continuous stimuli. In contrast, nature provides a setting that allows the brain to restore directed attention, leading to mental refreshment and recovery from cognitive fatigue.
3. Stress Reduction Theory (Ulrich, 1991): This theory emphasises that activities in nature can lead to a calming effect on the body and mind. The immersion in nature stimulates the nervous system to quieten stress in the body and promote relaxation.
4. Affect Regulation Theory (Richardson, 2016): This theory suggests that being in nature can enhance feelings of contentment and drive. On the other hand, barriers to accessing nature from physical access, may increase feelings of threat and discomfort.
5. Nature-based Biopsychosocial Resilience Theory (2023): This recent theory argues that a connection with nature strengthens biological, psychological, and social resilience as humans connect with themselves, nature and one another when in nature. It helps reduce stress responses and aids in quicker recovery from stressful situations.
References
- Wilson, E. O. (1984). Biophilia. Harvard University Press.
- Kaplan, S. (1995). The restorative benefits of nature: Toward an integrative framework. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 15(3), 169-182.
- Ulrich, R. S. (1991). Stress recovery during exposure to natural and urban environments. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 11(3), 201-230.
- Richardson, M. (2016). Affect regulation through nature: Positive emotions and connection with nature as mechanisms. Ecopsychology, 8(1), 1-13.
- Nature-based biopsychosocial resilience theory (2023). An integrative approach to human well-being.
Image: Aviemore 2024
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