Eco-therapy is a formal type of therapeutic treatment which involves doing outdoor activities in nature. There isn’t one single definition of ecotherapy, but it’s often used to describe a regular, structured activity that:
is led by trained professionals (sometimes therapists), who are there to support you
focuses on doing an activity, rather than on your health
takes place in a green environment
is related to exploring and appreciating the natural world
involves spending time with other people, although you can always choose to interact at your own pace.
Eco therapy is more than going for a walk in the park or mowing the lawn in the garden.
It is a regular activity that is facilitated and structured that focuses on doing an activity that takes place in a green environment , where exploring & appreciating the nature involves contact with other people.
Research has shown that the benefits of eco therapy can be;
• get out in the open air regularly & become more active
• can take part regardless of their fitness level
• manage your weight better
• increase your flexibility & stamina
• manage physical conditions better
• feel better as endorphins ‘feel good’ hormones are release
• make friends & value social contact
• do an enjoyable & worthwhile activity
• its said “feel better’ & more relaxed”
• are more positive about their life
• learn a new skill or develop an interest
• feel valued – what you do makes a difference
.• get time out from stresses & problems
• feel less depressed or anxious
• sleep better
• can talk about problems if you want to
• get support from others with similar experiences
• manage their mental health problems better
• use other treatments as well
• make friends & value social contact
• feel accepted & ‘normal’
• get involved in the community
• have a routine & a regular place to go
• get support from others with similar experiences
• realize mental health problems can happen to everyone
• do something useful in Your community
• get interested in what is happening in your community
• gradually build up skills
• see the impact of your actions & that change is possible
• begin to be more hopeful about the future
• gain qualifications & work experience
• get a job, education or training – for some
• enjoy being outside experiencing nature & green spaces
• feel calmer & more peaceful
• get interested in growth & change
• meet others interested in nature & widen social contacts
• feel part of the world – a spiritual dimension for some
• do something to look after the environment