July 29th, 2010 |
This year’s World Forestry Conference presented interesting findings about the connection between forests (and other green spaces) and both mental and physical health. Incorporating daily ‘nature therapy’ through time spent outdoors may help people remain physically healthier and more psychologically balanced. Researchers have found that in outdoor settings, stress hormone levels, blood pressure, muscle tension, and heart rate all decrease faster than they do indoors. Likewise, symptoms of depression, aggressiveness, and... Read More
© Copyright 2010 by http://www.GoodTherapy.org Therapist Washington, DC Bureau - All Rights Reserved.
June 6th, 2010 |
People who experience the symptoms of depression and other psychological concerns are often counseled to seek more time spent outdoors, often because of the benefits of Vitamin D as delivered through sunlight, along with the social component usually present in nature excursions. A study recently carried out at the University of Rochester, however, has found that the presence of nature on its own may contribute to greater feelings of well-being and decreased stress and fatigue. The study was based on a total of five... Read More
© Copyright 2010 by http://www.GoodTherapy.org Therapist Tampa Bureau - All Rights Reserved.
March 17th, 2010 |
I spoke to a friend the other day who, like many others, has been hit hard by the economic downturn. In spite of health problems and the great difficulties he is undergoing, he so badly wanted to offer the work he does (in the field of healing), that he conducted a workshop and donated all of the proceeds to the institution that allowed him to use their facilities. So it surprised him when, upon turning in the donations and asking for some reimbursement for some copies he had to make for the workshop (a paltry amount), that he was then told about others who used the facilities who were able to... Read More
February 23rd, 2010 |
The benefits of sunlight and enjoying the outdoors have been documented in many contexts, and those who suffer from symptoms of depression and other similar concerns may be especially able to notice effects with a simple stroll outdoors. Expanding these opportunities for mental wellness, ecotherapy has been expanding as a field for many years, and more clients are beginning to take... Read More
© Copyright 2010 by http://www.GoodTherapy.org Therapist Charlotte Bureau - All Rights Reserved.
February 1st, 2010 |
Tu B'Shvat, a Jewish celebration of trees, begins the evening of January 29th, marking the time when the tree sap begins to rise in the region of the custom's origin. During this time of appreciating and respecting life, celebrants eat tree fruit or nuts. If I was a Jewish celebrant, this evening after sunset I might take a pomegranate and savor its sweetness, feel its tang on my tongue, and imagine the dusty region my ancestors came from, how they may have tilled the earth, or walked or prayed or sang together, connecting through taste and spiritual practice to the earth and my people. Although... Read More
