Nature-Based and Animal-Assisted Therapy

Nature-based therapy - also known as ecotherapy or green therapy - is based on the idea that people are connected to and impacted by the natural environment. A growing body of research highlights the positive benefits of connecting with nature. Ecotherapy stems from the belief that people are part of the web of life and that we as humans are not isolated or separate from our environment. Ecopsychology is informed by systems theory and provides individuals with an opportunity to explore their relationship with nature.

Nature can support trauma recovery.

Research has shown that spending just 5 minutes in nature may allow our heart rate to slow, facial muscles to relax, and the prefrontal cortex (the “thinking” and “planning” part of our brain) to quiet. Additionally, hearing or being near water or birdsong has been shown to improve mood and energy. Just 15 minutes in nature can lead to a reduction in the stress hormone cortisol, and 90 minutes in nature can support a reduction in our mental chatter and preoccupation with problems and allow us to feel more connected to others and the world.

Dr. Rochelle Calvert, author of Healing With Nature, writes, “Nature benefits the exact areas and systems of the mind and body that are affected by trauma. Nature is an essential part of humanity’s survival and well-being. Disconnection from nature can leave us feeling uprooted and displaced, and since trauma often creates a feeling of displacement, returning to nature can help us to re-experience ourselves, feel more embodied and develop a sense of health and wholeness.”

What does nature-based therapy look like?

  • Animal-Assisted Therapy

    Animal-assisted therapy is rooted in the bond that can develop between people and animals. Often, the experience of trauma makes it difficult to connect with and feel safe with people. Animals can provide a safe connection when human relationships feel challenging. Additionally, animals can provide a sense of calm, comfort, or safety and divert attention away from a stressful situation and toward one that provides pleasure.

  • Therapy in Nature

    One way to engage in ecotherapy is to meet with a therapist outdoors, rather than have a session in the office. This might be at a local park, in a wooded area, or by a body of water. Ecotherapy can also be practiced in an office setting by observing nature through a window, bringing nature, such as plants, inside, and using metaphors or visualization techniques.

  • Forest Bathing

    Forest bathing is the practice of soaking up the sights, sounds, and feel of our natural environment. Studies show that walking in forest settings or even making time to view the outdoors can produce similar benefits. Research continues to highlight the mental health benefits of forest therapy. This practice not only boosts mood, but is also known to reduce and prevent the effects of depression and anxiety. Forest bathing can also help reduce sleep disturbance, reports a study done on participants with sleep complaints.