Nature Therapy: Healing with the Outdoors
Many of us instinctively feel calmer after a walk in the woods, a stroll by the ocean, or simply sitting in a sunny park. It turns out there’s a reason for that—nature heals.
Nature therapy (also called ecotherapy) is a growing approach in mental health that intentionally uses time outdoors as part of the therapeutic process.
What is Nature Therapy?
Nature therapy combines the benefits of being in a natural environment with evidence-based counselling techniques. Sessions may happen entirely outdoors—walking, sitting, or exploring nature together—or they may involve specific activities that connect you to the environment.
The goal is not just to “be outside,” but to use nature as a co-therapist, helping to:
Reduce stress and anxiety.
Improve mood and energy.
Increase feelings of connection and belonging.
Encourage mindfulness and presence.
Why Nature Works
Research shows that spending time in green spaces:
Lowers blood pressure and stress hormones.
Boosts serotonin and dopamine, the brain chemicals that influence mood.
Helps regulate the nervous system, moving us out of fight-or-flight mode.
Provides sensory input that grounds us in the present moment—rustling leaves, birdsong, the feeling of the sun or breeze.
These effects often happen within minutes of being outdoors, and they can be amplified when paired with therapeutic guidance.
What a Nature Therapy Session Might Look Like
Every practitioner’s approach is different, but a session might involve:
Walking side-by-side while discussing what’s on your mind.
Guided mindfulness exercises, such as noticing sounds, colours, or textures.
Gentle breathing or grounding practices while seated in a natural setting.
Reflective writing or creative activities inspired by your surroundings.
Nature therapy can also be adapted for groups, offering shared connection in a peaceful outdoor setting.
Who Can Benefit
Nature therapy can be helpful for:
Stress, burnout, and anxiety.
Mild to moderate depression.
Grief and life transitions.
People who feel “stuck” indoors or disconnected from themselves.
It’s often well-suited to those who find traditional office therapy too intense or confining, or who simply feel restored by fresh air and natural light.
The bottom line:
Nature has always been a place of refuge and renewal. In nature therapy, we harness that power intentionally—combining the healing qualities of the outdoors with professional guidance to support emotional well-being.
Sometimes, the path to feeling better starts with a step outside.