Recently, as I was preparing a workshop for The Guardian’s staff on “Nature and Mental Health,” I stumbled upon a YouTube video from the sixties featuring a scientist proclaiming, “breaking news: research indicates nature is actually advantageous for human beings.” I couldn’t help but laugh in disbelief, reflecting on how we have become so disconnected from the natural world.
Of course, nature can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression while fostering feelings of calmness, rejuvenation, and connectedness. Nature can help us process trauma, recover from addictions, and realign us with our life’s purpose and mission. Interestingly this revelation predates the chatter of the sixties scientist; it’s ancient wisdom that our ancestors lived by, that many of us today have overlooked or forgotten.
However, in 2022, I underwent a profound and unexpected healing journey through the nurturing embrace of Mother Nature, which prompted me to deepen my understanding of this realm. Engaging in a six-month intensive nature program called The Old Way Immersion, we embarked on a transformative exploration of rewilding, immersed in activities such as hunting, fishing, foraging, tracking, and primitive crafts. Despite anticipating a traditional masculine “man vs. nature” survival narrative, I was pleasantly surprised to encounter a more nurturing and abundant experience, akin to the ancient practices of our ancestors. I enrolled in this course with the intention of learning to live off the land like our ancestors did, never imagining that I would emerge from the program with one of the most profound healing experiences of my life.
So what makes Mother Nature the original healer, doctor, therapist?
From a scientific perspective one key aspect is the presence of phytoncides, natural compounds emitted by plants, which have been shown to reduce stress hormones and boost the immune system. Additionally, breathing in these phytoncides has been linked to increased activity of natural killer (NK) cells in our bodies, a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in defending the body against viruses and cancer. Spending time in nature has been linked to reductions in markers of inflammation, oxidative stress, and cellular aging, which are associated with various chronic diseases and accelerated aging processes. Brain scans in neuroscience have additionally revealed that viewing fractals in nature can stimulate the parahippocampal region of the brain, aiding in the processing and regulation of difficult emotions.
From a psychological perspective, nature holds profound therapeutic potential due to its ability to induce a state of calmness, reduce anxiety, and enhance overall well-being. The phenomenon known as biophilia suggests that humans possess an innate affinity for nature, which can be harnessed to promote psychological health. Exposure to natural environments has been found to lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, and increase levels of serotonin, the neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation and happiness. The sights, sounds, and smells of nature also stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing the physiological effects of stress and trauma. Moreover, exposure to natural light can regulate circadian rhythms and improve sleep quality, further contributing to overall wellbeing.
Shamans view the natural world as imbued with spiritual essence and wisdom, capable of restoring balance and harmony to the individual. In today’s modern world, our lives often revolve around artificial environments and technology, leading to a disconnection from the natural rhythms of the Earth. When a person connects with nature, they are aligning themselves with the vital energies of the Earth, facilitating the flow of healing energy throughout their energy body. The elements of nature – earth, air, water, and fire – are purifying and rejuvenating forces that cleanse the soul of negative energy and restore vitality.
I now frequently integrate nature into my psycho-shamanic practice. Ecotherapy is an umbrella term for this kind of nature work. It focusses on ECO over EGO. I propose EGO in this sense stands for “Exited Great Outdoors” where we see ourselves as separate or above nature. Where ECO stands for “Everything Connected as One” where we see ourselves as nature, you are a human animal. YOU ARE NATURE!!
And lastly as the saying goes “If you nurture nature, nature nurtures” and it really does.
