This conversation explores the profound impact of nature on mental health, particularly in alleviating anxiety and depression. It discusses the physiological benefits of spending time outdoors, the science behind nature's effects on the brain, and practical applications for integrating nature into therapeutic practices. The episode emphasizes the importance of small, mindful interactions with nature to foster emotional well-being.
Takeaways
- Nature can help soften, soothe, and reconnect us.
- Spending time outdoors creates measurable changes in the brain.
- Nature activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation.
- Short exposures to nature can boost mood and cognitive function.
- Attention restoration theory explains how nature replenishes mental resources.
- Eco-assisted behavioral activation encourages outdoor activities for mental health.
- Nature therapy can be integrated into various therapeutic frameworks.
- Mindfulness practices in nature can enhance emotional regulation.
- Nature provides a co-regulating environment for anxiety and depression.
- Small moments in nature can lead to significant emotional shifts.
Resources:
General Nature & Mental Health Research
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/org/science/article/pii/S1462373023000500
- Berman, M. G., et al. (2012). The Cognitive Benefits of Interacting With Nature. Psychological Science.
- PDF freely available.
- Bratman, G. N., et al. (2015). Nature experience reduces rumination and subgenual prefrontal cortex activation. PNAS.
- https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1510459112
- Twohig-Bennett, C. & Jones, A. (2018). The health benefits of the great outdoors: A systematic review and meta-analysis of greenspace exposure and health outcomes. Environmental Research.
- https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envres.2018.06.030
Anxiety, Stress & Physiology
- Park, B. J., et al. (2010). The physiological effects of Shinrin-Yoku (forest bathing): Evidence from field experiments. Environmental Health and Preventive Medicine.
- https://doi.org/10.1007/s12199-009-0086-9
Attention Restoration Theory (Kaplan & Kaplan)
- Basu, A., Duvall, J., & Kaplan, R. (2018). Attention Restoration Theory: Exploring the Role of Soft Fascination and Mental Bandwidth. Environment and Behavior, 51(9-10), 1055-1081. https://doi.org/10.1177/0013916518774400 (Original work published 2019)
The Center for Nature Informed Therapy
- https://www.natureinformedtherapy.org/
Host & Show Info
- Host Name: William Henry, LCSW
- About the Host: William Henry is a licensed clinical social worker and certified nature informed therapist. After graduating from New York University, he spent seven dedicated years in a day treatment center and school where he worked closely with students and families facing significant mental health challenges. Certified in Nature Informed Therapy in 2022, he believes that rebuilding our connection with nature can provide some much needed relief from the struggles that many of us are facing. Will spends his free time fly fishing, camping and hiking. Find more resources and information through his practice, Riverstone Mental Health Collective, based in Mount Kisco, NY.
- Website: riverstonementalhealth.com
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- Instagram: @riverstonementalhealth
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- LinkedIn: William Henry, LCSW
- YouTube: @TheNatureofMentalHealth
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⚠️ Important Disclaimer:
The Nature of Mental Health is not therapy or a replacement for therapy. The information presented here is provided for psychoeducational purposes. As always, when you have questions about your own well-being, please consult your mental health and/or medical care professional. If you’re in crisis, thinking about harming yourself, or don’t feel safe, call 911, or contact your local emergency number or crisis hotline immediately.
