The Harmony Lounge

TKDGRRL

Ecotherapy, sometimes called Green Therapy, is being exposed to natural settings or being out in nature. This includes taking regular walks in the countryside or the park, flying a kite, or even taking a simple walk in the woods. Exposure to natural settings has been proven to help adults and kids alike. Ecotherapy helps people find balance, connection, guidance, and healing through deepening their relationship with the natural world. The beneficial effects of natural settings, and even of looking at pictures of landscapes, can be measured and have been verified in psychological studies. Embracing Mother Nature has been shown to:

1. help reduce symptoms of ADHD in children
2. improve mental health
3. reduce depression
4. relieve stress
5. faciliate self-awareness
6. promote healing

Where do you like to go or what do you like to do to help reduce stress and improve your overall health and well being?

bika

I have never tries it but it has lots of advantage. I didnt know it before.

BrownEyedGirl

I didn't know that there were actual proven benefits from being in natural settings. That is good to know. But I have always loved to go for hikes in the woods when I need a stress reliever or just to get away for a little while. There is a state park near where we live and we like to go on the various hiking trails, especially in spring and fall. The leaves are beautiful in the fall!
I also just like to simply sit in my backyard, enjoying whatever I see...birds, squirrels playing, butterflies flying past, just listening to the sounds around me. I have some bird feeders and birdhouses as well as some flowers that we planted in baskets that I thoroughly enjoy. It just makes me feel better to spend time out there.

TKDGRRL

I think that many people are naturally drawn to the outdoors. Look at how many people choose to go hiking, camping, rving, fishing, or go to the beach, etc. for vacation or relaxation. Our basic human 'nature' is in tune with nature itself. Our minds instinctively know what we need IMO. I read a quote not long along about walking that I like:

We live in a fast-paced society.
Walking slows us down.

Simplyme

I know that when I can take a walk in a lush park or sit somewhere and stare out over a beautiful landscape I feel more in control of things such as my thoughts. I guess simply put it helps me focus or find center a long with the fact that it can just be so serene.

matty39

I had read an article not too long ago about the beneifits of being outside for children with adhd. I believe its very healthy to just be out in nature and find my garden to be a very relaxing place to be. I also enjoy the butterflies, birds, and small little animals that we observe while we're out there.

KrisNY

I didn't know that it was proven either--- being outdoors in a natural setting does all of that.
I do know that I love to be outdoors- doing anything- walking, swinging, cycling, swimming, or just relaxing- It always seems to put me in a better mood.
Whenever I'm stressed I grab my sneakers and head outdoors-
Even at work- I go outside and walk around the building-
I'm glad it's a proven fact now!