Why You Should Consider Outdoor Therapy
If you haven’t noticed already, we are big fans of being outdoors.
The physical and mental health benefits of time outside are immense. We spend more time indoors today than ever in history, and the impact on each of us at an individual level can be large. Humans thrive outside.
Traditionally, counseling has been something done indoors. In an office, “behind closed doors.” While there is benefit to therapy in nearly any form, the option for therapy outside is one that is increasing in popularity. And for good reason.
Who says therapy has to happen in an office? For some people, the idea of going into an office space, sitting across a table or room from someone, and talking directly to them about some of their most personal issues can be intimidating. Maybe even to the point of not doing it at all. Outdoor therapy allows you the opportunity to work with a professional in a setting that may feel more relaxing and comfortable to you.
So, why outdoor therapy? Here are a few reasons:
Research consistently shows that time outdoors is good for physical and mental health. Simply spending time outside (ideally 120 minutes per week, according to the most recent research) has been shown to improve stress, mood, sleep, blood pressure, and overall quality of life. Click here to see an overview of current research.
Outdoor therapy allows for gentle movement. While it’s not an exercise program, walking can be a part of outdoor therapy (if you choose), which is an added health benefit.
It can be more comfortable to talk to someone while you’re walking alongside them vs sitting and looking directly at them. Having the ability to look around in nature can help calm your nervous system. It can make talking about difficult things feel less difficult.
If you’re interested in trying outdoor therapy, ask your counselor if this is an option they provide. If you don’t have a counselor currently, try looking for one that provides outdoor therapy. You don’t usually have to commit to outdoor therapy every session and will have an option for online therapy or traditional in-office sessions when needed.
If outdoor therapy isn’t an option for you and you’re needing to do telehealth for time or logistical reasons, consider doing your telehealth sessions while sitting outside!
Exploration Counseling provides outdoor therapy in Woodland Park and Colorado Springs! Online therapy is also available throughout Colorado and in Missouri. We specialize in perinatal mood concerns (including postpartum anxiety and depression), maternal mental health, parenting, and relationships. Contact us for more details!
