Health & Aging | Thrive Wellness
Whole-person wellness forms the foundation of a fulfilling lifestyle at Presbyterian Senior Living. Nature therapy, a powerful wellness practice, offers an additional opportunity to create balance and joy in life. Our senior living communities are well-equipped to provide this healthy activity.
What Is Nature Therapy?
Nature therapy, also called as ecotherapy or green therapy, means spending time in nature to boost mental health and physical wellness. Unlike traditional therapy, nature therapy does not necessarily involve talking to a counselor. Instead, you connect with nature and let it heal your mind and body.
Research shows that nature therapy can reduce anxiety and depression, improve thinking skills, and promote personal growth. One study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that just 20 minutes in a natural setting can significantly decrease cortisol levels (the stress hormone) in your body.
Why Nature Therapy Works
There is something almost magical about spending time in nature.
Science can help explain why it is so effective:
- Stress Reduction: Time in nature lowers cortisol levels, helping you feel calmer and more centered.
- Mood Enhancement: Natural settings boost serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters that promote feelings of happiness and wellbeing.
- Mindfulness: Nature helps quiet racing thoughts and keep you present
- Physical Benefits: Time outdoors can lower blood pressure, boost immunity, and spark creativity.
These benefits are vital for our well-being, allowing us to be our best selves.
The VERT Method for Mindful Nature Connection
To get the most benefit from your time in nature, try mindful walking using the VERT method (which appropriately means "green" in French):
- V - Visually stimulating spaces: Find places rich in diverse plants and natural elements
- E - Engage all senses: Feel the air against your skin, listen to birdsong, smell the earth after rain
- R - Release deep mindful breaths: Pause to close your eyes and focus on your breath
- T - Think, contemplate, and reflect: Consider your experiences during and after your nature walk
Research shows that just 10 minutes in diverse natural settings can positively impact on mental well-being. While any green space is beneficial, studies indicate that forests and blue spaces (like lakesides or beaches) are particularly restorative.
The Healing Power of Different Natural Environments
Not all natural spaces offer the same benefits. Different environments affect our well-being in unique ways:
Forests
Trees emit phytoncides that boost our immune system and reduce stress hormones. A 15-minute walk on a forest path reduces stress and anxiety significantly more than a walk down a busy road or during daily activities.
Blue Spaces
Beaches, lakes, and rivers provide some of the most powerful grounding effects. The rhythmic sound of waves, the feeling of sand underfoot, and the negative ions in ocean air naturally boost energy and improve mood.
Birdsong
Simply seeing and hearing birds greatly enhance wellbeing. The presence of birds is calming, making it worthwhile to seek out spaces where you can enjoy their songs.
Practical Nature Therapy for Senior Living Residents
Integrating nature therapy into your routine is simpler than you might think:
- Start small: Begin with just 15 to 20 minutes of outdoor time, perhaps after breakfast when energy is highest
- Use all senses: Challenge yourself to notice something new with each sense during every outing. Not just what you see, but what you hear, smell and feel
- Practice consistency: Schedule regular nature time as you would any important appointment.
- Bring mindfulness: Pay attention to your breathing and bodily sensations while outdoors.
- Join community activities: Participate in organized nature walks or gardening groups for added social benefits
- Disconnect to reconnect: As safely as possible, leave your devices behind. If you feel more secure having a phone with out, silent ringtones and notifications.
- Adapt to your needs: If mobility is limited, enjoy nature through courtyard sitting, window views or indoor plants.
Making It Work in Your Life Plan Community
Most life plan communities offer excellent resources for nature therapy, including:
- Walking paths designed for various mobility levels
- Community gardens where you can tend plants or simply enjoy the atmosphere
- Bird feeding stations that attract wildlife for viewing
- Scheduled outdoor activities led by wellness staff
- Indoor atriums or greenhouses for year-round nature access
- Transportation to local parks or nature areas
Aim to connect with nature often. Take a moment to notice changes in your mood, energy level and outlook. Many seniors report feeling more relaxed, sleeping better and experience greater satisfaction with daily life after incorporating regular nature therapy.
By making nature connection a priority, you're not just passing time, you're actively investing in your health. You're enhancing your capacity to enjoy a vibrant lifestyle. The natural world has always been our first and most fundamental healing resource. Its power remains undiminished throughout our lives.
