Nature connectedness in counseling

The idea of the term “nature connectedness” underscores the profound psychological, physiological, and societal benefits of fostering a deeper connection with nature. This concept refers to the intricate and innate relationship humans share with the natural world, emphasizing the emotional and cognitive connections people feel toward nature (Mayer & Frantz, 2004). Time spent amidst nature has consistently demonstrated positive effects on mental health. Exposure to natural environments can alleviate symptoms of depression, reduce stress, and enhance overall psychological well-being (Hartig, Mitchell, de Vries, & Frumkin, 2014). Beyond its calming effects, nature also bolsters cognitive faculties. Natural settings have been linked to improved memory, heightened creativity, and enhanced attention span (Berman, Jonides, & Kaplan, 2008). Nature also provides a reflective space, enabling individuals to process emotions, confront traumas, and build coping mechanisms, thus fortifying emotional well-being (Jordan & Hinds, 2016).

Research has shown that even being surrounded by digital media that have images of nature improves our holistic wellness. Regular exposure to nature is linked to improved immune system function, thereby enhancing resistance to diseases, and promoting overall physical health (Li, 2010). Forest bathing, developed by Japanese researchers, has become a popular practice around the work. Forest environments have been shown to elevate parasympathetic nerve activity (which promotes relaxation) while reducing sympathetic nerve activity (associated with stress responses) (Park et al., 2010). Regular exposure to nature is linked to improved immune system function, thereby enhancing resistance to diseases, and promoting overall physical health (Li, 2010).

This begs the question then; how counselors can promote nature-connectedness both for themselves and their clients? Using a counseling approach of breaking down problems into manageable parts may prove beneficial here. Counselors can explore the idea of big, medium, and small nature. How can nature be an integral part of one’s life, even if the environment itself is not conducive to nature?

Some examples of engaging with the concept of nature connectedness are:

Nature-based community activities, from group hiking to communal gardening, facilitate stronger interpersonal bonds and foster a sense of collective identity. Shared experiences in nature cultivate communal narratives, solidarity, and mutual respect (Kals, Schumacher, & Montada, 1999).

Encouraging clients to think about how they might be a steward for the earth and nature. The foundation of many indigenousness belief systems is that humans are here to care for the earth. How can this idea be reflected in life and relationships? A heightened sense of nature connectedness often translates into increased environmental consciousness. Individuals deeply connected with nature tend to show pro-environmental behaviors, advocating for sustainability and environmental conservation (Nisbet, Zelenski, & Murphy, 2009). This interconnectedness not only fosters a profound respect for the environment but also perpetuates cultural heritage and wisdom (Berkes, 2018).

Create art and engage in storytelling with nature items. Items found in nature offer counselors and clients a multitude of metaphors to explore in connection with the client’s presenting concerns. This can create a sense of mastery and deepen the client’s connection with the counselor and nature. Nature multimodal art making also provides the easiest way for counselors and clients to bring nature into the counseling room, to explore the ideas of small, medium, and large nature. Exploring small, medium, and large nature and serving as potent material to explore our connection with nature.

Nature connectedness transcends a mere appreciation for scenic beauty — it represents a deeper, multidimensional bond with the environment, resonating with psychological, physiological, and societal facets of human existence. As society continues to evolve in the shadow of technological advancements, it becomes imperative to champion the cause of nature connectedness, ensuring that the tapestry of human-nature interactions remains vibrant and cherished.

References

Berman, M. G., Jonides, J., & Kaplan, S. (2008). The cognitive benefits of interacting with nature. Psychological Science, 19(12), 1207–1212.

Berkes, F. (2018). Sacred ecology. Routledge.

Hartig, T., Mitchell, R., de Vries, S., & Frumkin, H. (2014). Nature and health. Annual Review of Public Health, 35, 207–228.

Jordan, M., & Hinds, J. (Eds.). (2016). Ecotherapy: Theory, research and practice. Macmillan International Higher Education.

Kals, E., Schumacher, D., & Montada, L. (1999). Emotional affinity toward nature as a motivational basis to protect nature. Environment and Behavior, 31(2), 178–202.

Li, Q. (2010). Effect of forest bathing trips on human immune function. Environmental Health and Preventive Medicine, 15(1), 9–17.

Mayer, F. S., & Frantz, C. M. (2004). The connectedness to nature scale: A measure of individuals’ feeling in community with nature. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 24(4), 503–515.

Nisbet, E. K., Zelenski, J. M., & Murphy, S. A. (2009). The nature relatedness scale: Linking individuals’ connection with nature to environmental concern and behavior. Environment and Behavior, 41(5), 715–740.

Park, B. J., Tsunetsugu, Y., Kasetani, T., Kagawa, T., & Miyazaki, Y. (2010). The physiological effects of Shinrin-yoku (taking in the forest atmosphere or forest bathing): evidence from field experiments in 24 forests across Japan. Environmental Health and Preventive Medicine, 15(1), 18–26.

Pretty, J., Peacock, J., Sellens, M., & Griffin, M. (2005). The mental and physical health outcomes of green exercise. International Journal of Environmental Health Research, 15(5), 319–337.