Expressing the Fullness of Human Nature Through the Natural Setting

Spirituality in Clinical Practice

2020

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Spirituality, which is associated with the human motivation and potential to experience connection with the sacred and divine, is a common aspect of nature experience and has been the subject of many studies. But the profound benevolent effect of experiencing spirituality in nature in therapeutic contexts has yet to be empirically demonstrated. This article focuses on the therapeutic effect of experiencing spirituality in nature from the perspective of nature-based therapists. Spirituality emerged as a central theme in a larger study designed to develop a model of nature-based therapy (NBT), which is currently lacking in the field. Grounded theory methodology was applied, and data included in-depth interviews with 26 experienced nature-based therapists worldwide and field observations of 6 NBT workshops. Within the NBT context, spirituality emerged as involving an actual and tangible experience of the spiritual in physical form-nature as an embodiment of spirituality. The findings link this form of spiritual experience to significant therapeutic effects, including the experience of nature's immensity, which contributes to an expansive perspective; experiencing interconnectedness, which elicits a sense of belonging to the vast web of life; and the reflection of internal nature and truth by external nature as an accepting setting, which contributes to the discovery of an authentic self. These results are discussed in consideration of current perspectives on the psychology of spirituality, which further our understanding of the therapeutic effects of spirituality that may be evoked and implemented through nature. The practical and clinical implementations of spiritual connection through nature in therapeutic frameworks are discussed.

Section: Literature Reviewmentioning

confidence: 99%

The therapeutic value of experiencing spirituality in nature.

Spirituality in Clinical Practice

2020

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“…Previous research has shown that the vast natural setting may expand the observer’s usual frame of reference, linked to broader definitions of self, and in many instances to personal transformation (Naor & Mayseless, 2019; Shiota et al, 2007). Burns (2005) described this as nature’s capacity to take us “beyond the self.” The findings presented here illuminate specific qualities of the natural environment that contribute to the expanding of clients’ horizons (Naor, 2017; Pryor, 2009).…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 60%

Therapeutic factors in nature-based therapies: Unraveling the therapeutic benefits of integrating nature in psychotherapy.

2021

Psychotherapy

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The psychological benefits of human connection to nature have instigated the development of nature-based therapies (NBTs). This article focuses on the distinct therapeutic factors that characterize NBTs, from the perspective of practitioners from various NBTs, shedding light on the therapeutic value of psychotherapy conducted in the natural environment. To gain a general understanding of the distinct therapeutic factors, currently lacking in the broad field of NBTs, grounded theory methodology was applied. Data included in-depth interviews conducted with 26 nature-based practitioners from five countries, with various professional backgrounds, and six field observations of multiday nature-based group interventions. The findings of this study illuminate four distinct and common therapeutic factors enhanced by the natural environment and linked to the beneficial effect of NBTs: (a) the natural environment, delineated as a unique growth-oriented setting fostering health and wholeness; (b) challenge, described as a therapeutic means by which limiting perceptions of self may expand; (c) the role of nature, perceived as actively influencing the therapeutic process; and (d) expansiveness and interconnectedness experienced through nature eliciting a broad perspective on life and sense of belonging. New perspectives are revealed regarding the first two therapeutic factors that have been discussed previously in the literature, and two factors that are new to the broad field of NBTs are revealed providing us with new understandings regarding the therapeutic value of integrating nature in psychotherapy. All four factors are discussed in the context of examples of practice in the field and their practical implications for mental health professionals.

“…This notion is supported by major theories and extensive research linking natural settings to psychological and physical well-being (for extensive review, see Ewert et al, 2014; Gass et al, 2012). The beneficial effect of nature on human development has instigated a variety of nature-based therapeutic approaches that build upon the significant connection between humans and nature to help people heal, develop, and thrive—physically, psychologically, and spiritually (Naor, 2017; Russell & Farnum, 2004).…”

mentioning

confidence: 99%

“…This article focuses on the role of nature in the therapeutic process, specifically as perceived by practitioners in the field of nature-based therapies (NBTs). NBTs is used here as an umbrella term for a wide variety of approaches (e.g., adventure and wilderness therapy, ecotherapy, nature therapy; Berger, 2009; Clinebell, 1996; Naor, 2017; Russell & Farnum, 2004) that integrate actual contact with the natural environment in the therapeutic process (Naor & Mayseless, 2017). Although nature has been defined as the key construct differentiating between NBTs and more conventional therapeutic approaches, the way nature is integrated varies greatly among these approaches, depending on their ideology, target population, and main objectives (Ewert et al, 2014).…”

mentioning

confidence: 99%

See 1 more Smart Citation

The Art of Working With Nature in Nature-Based Therapies

Journal of Experiential Education

2020

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Background: Nature-based therapeutic approaches have largely centered on the significance of nature, as a unique setting. This article focuses on an additional perspective, that of nature as actively influencing the therapeutic process, providing significant content. Purpose: The main objective of this study was to shed light on how practitioners experience, perceive, and work with nature to serve therapeutic goals. Methodology/Approach: Grounded theory inquiry was implemented. Data included in-depth interviews conducted with 26 nature-based practitioners with different professional backgrounds from five countries and field observations of six nature-based workshops. Findings/Conclusions: Four major categories emerged: (a) A basic belief among practitioners that nature is actively influencing the therapeutic process, providing significant and relevant personal information; (b) the practitioners’ relationship with nature and its role in the therapeutic process; (c) the practice of working with nature so nature’s input is acknowledged and integrated intentionally; (d) creating the conditions for the clients’ engagement with nature as a resource via five themes. Implications: This study expands on common notions of nature-based facilitation, illuminating the possibilities and potential of integrating nature’s input as beneficial and relevant to the therapeutic process by working with nature. The operational and practical steps for working with nature are delineated.