Nature has been shown to have a calming and therapeutic effect on the mind and body. Being in nature can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and improve overall mood.
Outdoor Therapy sessions take advantage of this by accessing natural environments where therapy can take place. Outdoor Therapy sessions can be useful for clients who are unsure of or resistant to traditional indoor therapy settings.
Some clients can feel anxious engaging in traditional face to face ‘Therapy’ sessions, either in person or online. Outdoor Therapy is offered at Metta Therapy for clients who intuitively recognise they simply prefer the sense of space and freedom available when outside.
Sessions can be held in a variety of locations around the Central Scotland area, including public parks, woodland and beaches. The natural environment provides a unique and interesting backdrop for therapy, which can help to keep people more engaged and focused during sessions. This can lead to better outcomes and more progress in therapy.
Being outside in natural environments involves movement and walking together through ever changing natural space(s). The movement of walking can support the movement and processing of difficult thoughts and feelings which are experienced on psychological, emotional and somatic (physical) levels.
For some clients, being outside is a liberating experience where they can more fully be and express themselves. Accessing ‘Green Spaces’ such as Parks and Woodland and ‘Blue Spaces’ such as rivers and bodies of water, help clients to experience the grounding benefits of nature.
Working therapeutically within such natural environments can help clear a busy mind and bring feelings of calm and stability for people who experience mental and emotional stress, for whatever reason(s).
Natural environments offer opportunities for reflection that can be utilised within Outdoor Therapy sessions. For some clients, the natural environment is a very active and engaging part of Outdoor therapy sessions
Spending time in natural environments supports clients to access and experience the ‘Natural Health Service’ whilst working therapeutically with an experienced Outdoor Therapist.
Book a Free Consultation to discover if Outdoor Therapy can support your therapeutic goals.
