[ECO]7 Different Types of Ecotherapy and How They Promote Healing

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7 Different Types of Ecotherapy and How They Promote Healing

Have you been feeling overwhelmingly stressed? Perhaps you need a nature boost. Being outdoors can promote healing by improving your physical and mental health. Before you reach for a bottle of antidepressants, try immersing yourself in nature to enhance your mood. Here are seven examples of ecotherapy that should be part of your self-care routine.

What Is Ecotherapy?

Ecotherapy or nature therapy involves unstructured activities people do to improve their mental and physical well-being. It can include going to the beach or the park to soak up natural light. Studies have proved the curative power of nature — being surrounded by green landscapes can instantly cheer you up. 

Ways Ecotherapy Promotes Healing

Sometimes, all you need to relieve stress is a hike or a campout at a nearby park. Many doctors recommend nature therapy as part of the treatment plan for people with mental health concerns. Here are some of its benefits. 

Reduces Depression

In a study, people with depression were enrolled in a nature-based therapy program that involved

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and a forest once a week for an hour. Patients reported being happy connecting with nature. As a result, their depression scores decreased while their mental well-being increased. 

If you’re feeling down, looking at or touching the flowers in your garden can improve your mood. 

Lowers Stress

Unresolved stress can compromise your immune system. Ecotherapy promotes biophilia, a concept based on the fact that humans innately need nature. One study found that being in green environments can positively influence your emotional well-being. It can

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and boost your mood and condition. Nature induces calm and mindfulness, which are therapeutic. 

Eases Anxiety

Forest bathing, an example of ecotherapy,

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and negative moods. Hiking also offers the same benefits, although forest bathing has greater positive results. 

Overall, ecotherapy can promote elevated mental well-being. Children and adults alike can benefit from it. 

7 Examples of Ecotherapy

Nature therapy comes in various forms. Here are some things you can try. 

1. Forest Bathing 

This popular ********* practice, also called Shinrin-yoku, involves immersing all your senses in forest elements. Listening to the sound of the birds, feeling the texture of tree bark and indulging your eyes in the vibrant green surroundings can bring calm to your soul. It also strengthens your immunity. Plants release phytoncides to protect themselves from predators, and inhaling these compounds can

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in your body that help eliminate inflammation. 

2. Wilderness Therapy

People living with depression and anxiety may find wilderness therapy to be a fun and engaging treatment program to reclaim their health. Activities during

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, zip line excursions and team games. These outdoor events can put you in a better mood. 

3. Horticultural Therapy

There’s a reason farmers are among the happiest people on earth. In a survey, researchers found that those working in

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have the highest self-reported happiness and the lowest levels of self-reported stress. Farmers enjoy their work in green spaces, and the physical activity involved can contribute to job satisfaction.

Horticultural therapy mainly involves gardening. Touching soil, watering plants and trimming overgrown leaves can be incredibly healing. Participating in a community garden or having one in your backyard helps you tap into nature’s curative power. 

4. Park Prescriptions

Doctors may prescribe a park visit. When you’re stressed or anxious, a trip to a nearby green space can alleviate negative emotions. Hiking at a park can

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and reduce your risk of respiratory problems. At the same time, engaging in the great outdoors can lower your likelihood of depression. 

5. Earthing 

Grounding or earthing involves walking barefoot on the soil or grass, allowing nature’s electrical charge to stabilize the body’s electrons. It can

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, energy and sleep. For people with chronic disorders

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, like diabetes, asthma and heart conditions, it’s a supportive therapy integrable with their standard treatment plan to further improve their health. 

6. Nature Meditation and Yoga

Meditation and yoga in green environments have compounding physical and mental health benefits. One study on arthritis patients found that yoga

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and physical function. Yin yoga also increases the body’s production of hyaluronic acid, which lubricates joints so you can move comfortably. 

7. Animal-Assisted Therapy

For **** lovers, this form of ecotherapy can be extremely stress-relieving. If you’re mentally overwhelmed, petting or playing with your dog or cat can put a smile on your face and make you feel much better. 

Best Locations for Ecotherapy

Where should you go for an ecotherapy adventure? Check out these best places for a nature recharge. 

National Parks and Reserves

From luscious forests and relaxing hot springs to expansive wildlife, national parks are full of wonders that will leave you in awe of the planet. You can hike, camp or join a group tour to visit one nearby. 

Eco-Lodges and Retreat Centers

Booking a visit to an eco-lodge or retreat center is one of the best ways to

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. Eco-lodge owners offer sustainable accommodations in remote areas, so you’ll be surrounded by forest and enjoy its calming effects. Make sure to look for one with an ecotherapy certification, which guarantees the location’s safety.

Healing Gardens and Botanical Sanctuaries

Healing gardens provide a safe refuge to ease mental worries. Walking through a colorful garden or sitting on a bench surrounded by flowers is one way to access nature’s healing power. 

Best Examples of Ecotherapy That Promote Well-Being

Humans and nature have an undeniable connection. When this link weakens, it can hurt your mental health. Hone the great outdoors’ healing features through ecotherapy. Visit a park, go on a retreat or try grounding anytime you need a boost from nature. Doing so will bring you psychological comfort.

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