By : Mrs. Kemelia binti Omar _^K.B.;P.A.

Nature therapy, also known as ecotherapy, is based on the concept of using nature to help with healing, especially in psychological terms. It doesn’t require high costs and is very effective in improving various aspects of human psychological health.

Numerous books and articles have been published on ways to increase happiness. One proven method is by spending more time in nature.

In a study published in Science Advances, Bratman and colleagues found evidence that connecting with nature is associated with various benefits, including improved happiness, well-being, positive social interactions, and a meaningful sense of life. Another recent study shows that exposure to natural environments is good for our brains. It enhances our working memory performance, cognitive flexibility, and attention control tasks.
Here are some tips to make your environment more therapeutic:

Plants
Research shows that people who spend more time with plants not only help remove toxins from the air but also feel calmer, more empathetic, and more compassionate toward others.

Nature-themed Art or Photos
Choose scenes of nature, lush gardens, or beautiful landscapes. In another study on the benefits of nature for health, researchers found that people who viewed beautiful green landscapes experienced lower levels of stress.

Use Soundscapes and Download Apps Featuring Natural Sounds
Don’t underestimate the sound of waterfalls or rain. The results don’t just increase feelings of calm and relaxation—they can also improve focus and cognitive performance. Studies have shown that people who only hear natural sounds, such as chirping crickets or ocean waves, perform better in tests compared to those who only hear car honks, as in a city environment.

You may have heard other terms for nature therapy, such as "green exercise" or "green therapy." These terms highlight the extraordinary benefits derived from spending time in green areas. However, spending time around the ocean, rivers, and lakes is also part of nature therapy. Being near aquariums also has a psychological healing effect. It lifts our mood because the color blue symbolizes tranquility.

Date of Input: 28/02/2025 | Updated: 28/02/2025 | ayna