Often referred to as green therapy or ecotherapy, nature therapy was developed by American academic and novelist Theodore Roszak. It’s an example of how emergent ecopsychology might be put into practise.
The core tenet in this concept is that of a larger picture or web of existence to which each individual contributes. The key idea is that human beings are integral parts of our ecosystem rather than distinct from it.
Nature therapy allows people to rediscover their connection to the natural world, an aspect of mental health that is sometimes overlooked in conventional treatment. The ability to connect one with nature and its systems is central to this ideology and has been shown to have positive effects on mental health.
The role of nature therapy in substance abuse treatment
The use of nature therapy in the treatment of substance abuse in a South Africa rehab produces positive psychological and physiological outcomes. This is because exposure to nature has been linked to decreased stress, anxiety, and physiological responses.
Many of these conditions serve as precipitating factors for people with drug addiction disorders. Being in nature’s peaceful environment can help individuals deal with their feelings in a more rational and healthy way.
Addiction treatment begins with improving one’s physical and mental health, which can be accomplished through nature therapy.
Those struggling with a substance use disorder frequently experience negative emotions such as self-hatred, low self-worth, rage, frustration, and melancholy. Addicts who experience these feelings may get so overwhelmed that they act destructively.
Patients who are experiencing difficulty expressing their anger and other negative emotions may benefit from spending more time outside in nature.
Types of nature therapy
Although there is much more to this therapy, several methods and activities can be used to integrate nature therapy into a 4-steps programme at a South Africa rehab.
Nature meditation
This is a form of mediation practised in group therapy sessions, usually in a natural setting. During this time, participants find comfort in the attraction to elements of nature that help them work with their feelings.
A person dealing with issues of self-worth can, for instance, find solace when sitting beside an old tree providing shelter for birds.
At the conclusion of such an event, participants typically take turns talking on their impressions of the activity.
Horticultural therapy
Gardening and other plant-based activities serve as the medium for this treatment. Recovery from substance misuse, burnout, stress, and isolation are all conditions for which this is a common recommendation.
Earthwork, weeding, and pruning are all examples of tasks that can be performed during horticultural therapy.
Physical exercise in the outdoors
People who need assistance managing stress, anxiety, despair, or rage might try engaging in physical activities like jogging, walking, or yoga in a natural setting. This usually helps with coping mechanisms to rebuild positivity, healthy relationships and a better scope on life.
Animal-assisted therapy and conservation
Under this, the healing process is aided by the presence of one or more animals. Researchers have shown that interacting with animals has a calming effect.
Alternatively, individuals can often regain optimism and a feeling of purpose by working to improve the environment through conservation. When done with others, these pursuits can create a sense of community and belonging. Results have shown a strong uptick in reported mental health.
From the above, it’s clear to see that nature therapy is a solution for addiction disorders. Embrace it for better health.
Also Read: Difficult conversations: How to talk to your teen about drugs
