What is Nature Therapy?

Nature Therapy is a therapeutic practice that connects people with the healing power of the natural world. It is a holistic approach to health and well-being, utilizing outdoor environments and nature-based activities to support mental, emotional, and physical health.

Nature Therapy is based on several core principles that guide its approach to healing and wellness:

• Connection with Nature: Nature Therapy emphasizes reconnecting with the natural environment, fostering a sense of harmony with the earth. By immersing in nature, we can cultivate a deeper appreciation for its beauty and cycles.
  
• Sensory Engagement: Nature Therapy encourages the use of all senses—sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste—to fully experience the environment. This sensory immersion can reduce stress and anxiety, promoting relaxation.
  
• Mindfulness and Presence: Practitioners often integrate mindfulness techniques, encouraging participants to be fully present and aware of their surroundings. This heightened awareness can help alleviate the distractions and pressures of modern life.
  
• Therapeutic Activities: Nature Therapy includes a wide range of activities that promote health and well-being, such as forest bathing, nature walks, gardening, wildlife observation, and creative expression with natural materials.
  

Why Nature Therapy?

The modern world is fast-paced and often disconnected from nature. Many people experience high levels of stress, anxiety, and burnout, with limited opportunities to slow down and reconnect with the environment. Nature Therapy provides a way to escape the demands of daily life and find solace in the beauty and tranquility of nature. Research has shown that spending time in natural settings can have profound benefits for our mental and physical health, including:

• Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Natural environments can lower cortisol levels and promote relaxation.
  
• Improved Mood and Creativity: The sights, sounds, and smells of nature can boost mood and spark creativity.
  
• Increased Physical Activity: Nature Therapy often involves walking, hiking, or other forms of movement, contributing to better physical health.
  
• Enhanced Connection: Spending time in nature helps people feel more connected to the environment and others, fostering a sense of community.
  

About Me.

My name is Emma Lawson. I am a qualified Level 3 ​Forest School Leader, Certified Outdoor Mental ​Health Practitioner, Certified Outdoor Therapist, ​Qualified Hypnotherapist and a Director of the Forest ​School Association.

My qualifications and experience ensure that I have ​the knowledge and expertise to guide individuals ​through transformative therapeutic experiences in ​nature. I regularly undertake new training courses to ​ensure that my qualifications and skills are kept up to ​date. As a member of the Outdoor Therapy Clinical ​Supervision Group my practice is monitored by a ​professionally qualified multidisciplinary team.

I offer a range of Nature Therapy sessions in the ​Yorkshire area designed to meet the unique needs of ​each participant. Whether you're seeking relief from ​stress, looking to boost your mental health, or simply ​wanting to reconnect with nature, my sessions are ​designed to provide a safe, supportive environment.

What to expect?

During a Nature Therapy session, you'll experience a blend of Fotest School skills, mindfulness, sensory engagement, and gentle movement within a natural setting. Sessions may include:

• Forest Bathing: Slow, mindful walks through the forest, focusing on engaging all your senses.
  
• Nature-Based Mindfulness: Guided mindfulness exercises that draw inspiration from the surrounding environment.
  
• Forest School skills: Using tools, fire skills, nature education.
  
• Creative Activities: Art and craft activities using natural materials to promote creativity and relaxation.
  
• Group Activities: Opportunities to connect with others and share experiences in a supportive community.
  

Sessions are open to individuals of all ages and fitness levels. I aim to create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable exploring the healing power of nature.

NATURE THERAPIST