Ecotherapy — an innovative direction in psychotherapy, as well as an excellent tool for self-help, improving emotional state and psychological well-being. This direction is based on the idea of the inseparability of our psyche from the world around us.
ContentThe most common types of ecotherapyMeditation in natureGarden therapyExercise in natureAnimal therapyTechniques that you can try yourself
Ecotherapy is quite extensive, but, first of all, it is a connection between man and nature. A picnic in the fresh air, a walk in the park, gatherings in front of a pond, picking berries or mushrooms, SUP surfing, weekends outside the city – these are all components of ecotherapy, writes WomanEL.
Ecotherapy: how to live in harmony with nature. Source: pinterest.com
The most common types of ecotherapy
Meditation in nature
Natural space meditation is often used as group therapy. A forest, the shore of a reservoir, a remote corner of a park or an eco-trail – any secluded location will do.
Garden therapy
Caring for plants in the garden has an impact on emotional well-being. Gardening or even contemplating plants has a therapeutic effect.
Working in the beds or garden not only calms you down and clears your head – it brings real results. This hobby also helps build relationships with people: discussing the zucchini harvest with a neighbor is much more pleasant than chasing gloomy thoughts in your head alone.
Recommended for reducing stress and burnout, as well as in cases of social isolation of older people.
Physical exercise in nature
Running, walking, yoga classes in parks. Recommended for reducing stress and anxiety.
Forest bathing is also a great option. This practice actively uses all five senses and greatly stimulates the body. In addition to forest rivers and lakes, you can arrange a swim in the spring.
Animal therapy
< p>Interacting with animals outdoors is a great way to cope with stress. Playing, petting, and watching animals reduce anxiety.
Also, the presence of animals has a calming effect on children with aggression problems and can reduce physiological stress in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
Positive interaction “man – nature”… Source: pinterest.com
Techniques to try on your own
True ecotherapy usually involves the guidance of a qualified therapist, but with these strategies you can create your own nature-based wellness practice. So, try these ecotherapy techniques:
- Start an informal garbage collection;
- Explore the dark side of nature and start night therapy in nature;
- Spend a day among trees;
- take your normal activities into the yard.
We previously talked about living without anger: how to curb negative emotions.
