Renewing Your Body, Mind, and Spirit Through Outdoor Therapy
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Summer is finally on its way, everything is lush and green, the temperature is above freezing, and my flowers are in full bloom! I love the smell of lilac bushes, wildflowers, and fresh cut grass, its such a light and airy time of year.
I also look forward to having therapy sessions with my clients outdoors. For the past 3 years,I have been offering this type of treatment and its gaining more interest. I have a small area with a café table on a deck nestled privately between trees and bushes that allows for comfort and relaxation while enjoying nature’s sounds and beauty as we talk. I also enjoy walking around the vast area near my office building, as some clients enjoy movement while working through challenges.
Outdoor therapy is a type of therapy that uses nature to help modify behavior and encourage self-exploration and improvement. Sometimes, it can be adventure-based and other times, it can be what I described above.
There are many reasons to consider an outdoor session:
Research has shown that it reduces stress by renewing mindfulness.
It creates connection, meaningfulness, and purpose.
Children and Teens benefit more than any other population, especially in academic performance.
It reduces anxiety and depression.
It reduces the risk of disease or might I add dis-ease.
Recently, I’ve been encouraging all of my clients to try at least one session this summer in order to evaluate the benefits for their situation. After each session, I ask for feedback about how they feel it was different from indoors, if they thought it to be beneficial, and how it was helpful. I’ve been getting good feedback about their ability to relax into the session more quickly, increased feelings of calm at the end, and some have just been happy to be outside , as that was the only chance they would get for the day.
I have a small sign on the table that says: “Come as You Are”, I invite YOU, to come as YOU are and experience this unique and restorative session.
Your feedback and questions are always welcome and I hope to see you over the summer!
Blessings, Health, and Happiness to You,
Joelle