Nature and Us
For centuries our ancestors have had a strong sense about and a meaningful connection with Nature. They knew how to listen and respect all aspects of Nature and its beauty as well as the healing it has to offer.
Our ancestors knew exactly how to utilise what mother nature holds in its core and found ways to connect with it.
Nature connection refers to the sense of connection and interdependence between humans and nature. It involves recognising and appreciating the beauty, complexity, and intrinsic value of nature, as well as developing a sense of responsibility and stewardship towards the environment.
Once we allow ourselves to see the magic, healing and the support Nature offers us life can become more meaningful but more so it can bring a sense of peace , acceptance and inclusiveness within us.
You might ask Why did I chose to write about Nature on my very first blog?
Simple really! My relationship with the natural world originates from childhood. I spent my youth years in nature and the outdoors most of the time and used the natural environment as a tool for playfulness and solace. My memories bring me to the times I used to spend swimming in the rivers and climbing up mountains with
friends, but there were also times when I would spend alone picking up daisies and chasing butterflies.
As my journey into Therapy began I could feel the pull to connect with Nature more and also began my research in finding out if both can actually come together.
During my studies, for the first research project I chose to do just that, discover if therapy can be combined with Nature and how can we utilise what Mother Nature has to offer in a conducive way for healing.
After much research , readings and plenty online investigations I began to understand that although this approach might not be favourite to many therapist or clients, research showed that there are many benefits of using natural settings to support mental and physical wellbeing, Considering Nature Therapy and inviting the natural world to be part of therapy work, has shown that it can impact clients’ health and wellbeing and indeed that of the therapist.
Books such as ; “The Nature Fix” by Florence Williams; “The Healing Fields” by Sonja Linden and Jenny Grut and indeed there are more out there, have outlined the importance of utilising Nature to bring about healing. Here is a paragraph from one of the books , “short exposures to nature can make us less aggressive, more creative, more civic-minded and healthier overall”. (Williams, The Nature Fix, 2017).
In this book Williams makes a convincing argument for more time outdoors, as she explores the “Forest Bathing” approach, (the Japanese custom sensory walk in the forests) and other approaches and how nature produces the same effects as a mind-altering remedy.
During my research it became apparent that “Nature” could also include not only working outdoors; however, it can mean involvement with animals, decorating the room with plants, organising separate mindful walking sessions in between counselling sessions, etc. Overall, it is understandable that in whatever way one decides to utilise nature within Therapy, one thing is for sure, it could bring solace and a sense of unity for both parties, something important in Therapy. Additionally, it will enhance the positive effects on clients’ psychological and spiritual state and bring a sense of trust in themselves and the world around them.
I will leave here on this very first blog but I am also sure that I will be coming back for more about this very close to my heart topic.
Until then,
Lots of Love :)
Blerina