Eco Psychology

Since I started this blog I've written about Care Farming, Social and Therapeutic Horticulture, Forest Therapy and Animal Assisted Interventions, which as you may remember are all types of Green Care. 

I've never really investigated Eco Psychology or known much about it but recently the topic cropped up in a discussion about wellbeing, so I decided to take an introductory module to find out more. 

Eco Psychology is also part of the wider Green Care umbrella and studies the relationship between people and nature. It uses both ecological and psychological theories with a focus on supporting wellbeing. 

The Yale School of the Environment in 2020 reported that exposure to the natural world could reduce stress and boost healing. It should be acknowledged that not everyone feels comfortable in nature, but for those who felt safe in the natural environment it reduced blood pressure, calmed the nervous system, reduced anxiety, improved mood, boosted self esteem and produced feelings of calm.

As Green Care is made up of lots of of strands it can sometimes become a bit complicated or confusing and some of you may be thinking is Eco Psychology different to Eco Therapy? Put simply Eco Therapy is the practical application of the theories and principles of Eco Psychology. These will usually be guided by a counsellor or therapist and will take place in green and blue spaces in cities as well as in rural areas. It may involve working in nature or experiencing nature and could include spending time with others in nature.

The UK charity MIND suggests asking your doctor for a social prescription to a local organisation or having a look yourself for nature based groups and classes near you. The Anna Freud Centre in London says anyone can benefit from time spent in nature and that even if they can't find a group or class they can still benefit by doing the simplest tasks such as growing herbs on a windowsill.