The Psychological and Emotional Benefits of Getting Outside

"Nonetheless, ample research shows how important it is to "get out into nature" to restore ourselves so that we can do "more important" things. 1 Because I fully believe that it's essential to tap into our biophilic proclivities and rewild ourselves by leaving the indoors behind, I was thrilled to read Dr. Patricia Hasbach's new book, Prescribing Nature: A Clinician's Guide to Ecotherapy,in which she shows why ecotherapy and having direct contact with nature have strong restorative effects."

"Many clinicians are not prepared to address the psychological issues related to climate change. Recent studies point to the deep concern, fear, and sense of hopelessness that many people feel on this topic. If we don't include the human-nature relationship within our scope of treatment, we risk missing the source of these powerful emotions, and we may not even ask the appropriate questions to make the topic a salient one for therapy."

Ecotherapy uses direct contact with nature to produce strong restorative effects on psychological and emotional functioning. Psychotherapy traditionally occurs indoors and often neglects issues that cross the urban boundary. Climate-related anxiety and trauma are increasing, producing deep concern, fear, and hopelessness for many people. Many clinicians lack preparedness to address psychological impacts of climate change. Incorporating the human-nature relationship into assessment and treatment can uncover sources of powerful emotions and make therapy more salient. Practical, accessible how-to guidance helps clinicians integrate nature into treatment planning and delivery through systematic ecotherapy approaches.

Read at Psychology Today