Nature as a Co-Therapist

The Healing Power of Nature

The evidence for the healing properties of nature based therapies is growing. From the Japanese origins of ‘shinrin yoku’ (the practice of spending time in a forest to relax and improve well-being) to the uptake of green social prescribing in the UK, more people are learning to understand the importance of time spent slowing down and being in, being with and being a part of nature.

Nature as Therapy

In my practice, I have observed how beneficial it has been for numerous people – including children – to reconnect with nature and the natural world.

A teenager experiencing panic attacks found comfort in rushing to his bedroom window to feel the cold air on his face. A widowed mother discovered a sense of routine and solace in walking to her favourite tree in the park each day.

Finding Meaning in the Natural World

I offer everyone I work with the space to explore their relationship with nature – what provides them with comfort and connection, and what might bring discomfort or disconnection. Through mindful activities, I help people find meaning in the natural world and apply it to their own lives.

One family, for example, noticed how a colony of ants worked tirelessly to rebuild their disturbed nest. They saw themselves reflected in the ants – constantly busy, never stopping to rest or process the stress and trauma they had experienced. Inspired by this, they created a new routine: a weekly pause to spend time in nature, breathe together, and reflect on their lives at a slower pace.

Expressing the Impact of Nature

During one of these session, a parent and I were inspired to write a poem together, as a way of expressing the impact nature was having on them. I hope you enjoy it.

We are part of nature,
we breathe the air,
we feel the temperature of the earth and wind with our flesh,
we smell the living and non living elements around us,
we taste the food,
we quench thirst with drops of water,
we hear the sounds of the natural world,
we leave traces of us for others to discover,
we can heal, if we are able to reconnect.

Nature as a Co-Therapist

In moments like these, nature becomes the guide – the co-therapist alongside me – offering people a new way to see and understand themselves.

If you’re interested in exploring how nature can support healing and self-discovery for yourself, your family, or your team, get in touch.