Science of Nature & Wellbeing
Do you like to know ‘the why’ behind what we do as humans? When it comes to nature and our relationship with it, our approach to nature therapy is to help you feel good mentally, physically and spiritually while feeling a deeper connection to nature. Feeling and sensation are not always accessible so it can help to understand the science of these concepts before you can commit.
The first thing to understand is that the earth is one large living ecosystem of which we as a species are part of. We often feel separate, as though nature is outside of us. There are many complex reasons why nature seems “out there”. Put simply, our industrialised age and fast evolution has created huge distance from the natural world. We still rely on natural resources but often see the natural world as a commodity rather than kin.
Our bodies evolved in relationship to the land, water and creatures we share it with. It is no wonder then that we physically and emotionally respond to what we call “nature”.
Understanding the scientific value of nature connectedness is important but ultimately actively connecting with nature is the best way to feel the benefits and see for yourself.
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![Stress Reduction]()
Stress Reduction
When you feel safe, time in nature is an antidote for stress
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![Physical effects]()
Physical effects
Time in nature can lower blood pressure and stress hormone levels and reduce nervous system arousal and enhance immune system function
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![Mental Benefits]()
Mental Benefits
Increased self-esteem, reduced anxiety, and improved mood
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![creativity]()
creativity
Natural environments stimulate curiosity and foster flexibility and imagination
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![Spiritual]()
Spiritual
It is no secret that ancient sites, rituals and religious interest has focused on nature for millennia. Nature & spirituality are closely linked.
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![nature and compassion]()
Societal Benefits
Greater exposure to nature translates into more community cohesion and lower crime rates
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![Tree-Angophora-conservation]()
conservation
Evidence shows that people who connect with nature are more likely to value and act to protect the natural environment
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![compassion and nature]()
compassion
People who experience greater connection to nature also experience more compassion for themselves, others and nature itself
recommended reading…
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“Braiding Sweetgrass is instructive poetry. Robin Wall Kimmerer has put the spiritual relationship that Chief Seattle called the 'web of life' into writing” - Penguin Publishing. This book reminds us of our fundamental oneness with nature.
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“Why nature makes us happier, healthier and more creative”. This book is a deep dive into the science of why being in nature makes us feel good with anecdotes from the author along the way.
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An insight into the powerful impact of gardening and nature on mental health, and the psychospiritual connection we have with nature.