Evidence Based Research Supporting Nature Based Therapy
Six Step Model of Nature-Based Therapy Process
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public health (February, 2020 17(3):685)
The aim of this study was to develop a theoretical model of the nature-based therapy process by analyzing individual empirical data, of 180 self-reported essays on “Forest Therapy Experiences” submitted to the Korea Forest Service.
Results revealed that the nature-based therapy process contained six categories: Stimulation, acceptance, purification, insight, recharging, and change. When in the natural environment, participants first experienced positive emotional change, followed by cognitive and behavioral changes. Based on these results, a nature-based therapy process model was derived. This study revealed that the nature-based therapy process did not consist of just a single element or step, but involved an integrated way of healing with emotional and cognitive changes. This study is significant in that it derives a theoretical model of the nature-based therapy process with comprehensive mechanisms.
In the nature-based therapy process, self-healing progresses as the mind and body interact with various elements of the nature. Natural environments are not only healing places where physical symptoms and psychological problems are healed, but also healing places where holistic healing, including oneself and others as well as social and relational recovery, can take place. In addition, natural environment, such as a forest, can serve as a place that provides a transcendence to overcome difficulties of reality and a place of “self-therapy” that can help one find the cause of the problem and resolve the issue by oneself.
This study was significant in that it derived a theoretical model of the nature-based therapy process and mechanisms. It was also meaningful in that it explored changed lives and long-term effects of participants after experiencing natural recovery.
For a more in depth look at the six categories, click here.
Testimonials
In a world that is moving faster than we care to acknowledge, I really like to seek out things that bring me into stillness. To reflect, to contemplate, to appreciate. I am so grateful to live in a place where I can be taken in by nature. The trees are my family, the water my church, the mountains my home. I also appreciate the privilege that comes with living in such a place. For those living in concrete jungles, for those needing refuge, for those longing to reconnect with the Earth from the comfort of your own home, this book is for you. A Walk in the Wilderness, by Sheryl Hanula, will have you down on your knees in thanks for this place we call home. A blend of her own photos and words, she takes you through meditations, pondering, and examinations of how we fit into this world. Each page helps bring us back to ourselves, to see how small we are, and how grand our Mother Earth truly is. Thank you for this gem of a book, Sheryl.
—— Casey Parsons, Acupuncturist, Owner of Love & Acupuncture
I am Cliff Thorbes, a registered horticultural therapist with the Canadian Horticultural Therapy Association (CHTA). Sheryl Hanula is a colleague and fellow board member of the CHTA. I attended a CHTA Book Club event where Sheryl’s book, A Walk in the Wilderness: Therapeutic Landscapes, was the focus of discussion. As Sheryl discussed the inspiration for her photography and the expressive writing that accompanies each photograph, I found myself captivated by both her photography and writing. My instincts told me, I could integrate her material into a nature-based arts activity with my clients and participants during the therapeutic horticulture sessions I offer.
I have since, and have also witnessed her creative works’ similar effects on my clients and participants; transporting them to a place of reflection, acceptance, and healing.
——Cliff Thorbes HTR, CCDP, and MHFA Canada Facilitator
…Along with the exquisite natural landscapes she has added her sensitive meditative poetry…A bedside book for sweet dreams for children or anyone or moments in the day for calming through ones innate connection to the natural world.
—— Liz Christian, Visual Artist