In my brief (relatively) time on earth, I have found that when all else fails, nothing helps to get me re-centered, re-energized, and re-normalized like getting back to basics in the great outdoors. With our ever increasingly digital world, it can be easy to forget that at our core, we are animals and we require a connection to the natural world. Immersing oneself in the serenity of nature can have profound healing effects on individuals struggling with addiction and mental health issues. In this blog, we'll explore the therapeutic benefits of nature therapy, the role of mindfulness, and why disconnecting from technology and urban environments is essential for mental health and addiction recovery.
Country Road sits on 135 acres of pastureland, is a stone’s throw from Lake Thunderbird State Park, and a quick drive to Wichita Mountains. This makes a perfect location for nature therapy. Also known as ecotherapy, this is the therapeutic practice of incorporating nature into the recovery process. Whether it’s hiking through the woods, canoeing on a lake, or just sitting beneath the canopy of trees on a warm sunny day, the natural world offers a host of opportunities for reflection and healing.
Studies have shown that spending time in nature can reduce levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, and increase feelings of relaxation and well-being. Nature therapy provides a sensory-rich experience, stimulating the brain and allowing individuals to reconnect with their surroundings in a profound way. This reconnection with nature can serve as a powerful catalyst for healing and recovery from addiction.
A fundamental part of nature therapy is mindfulness - the practice of being fully present. This is something that is hard to do normally, let alone when you’re coming off drugs and alcohol. But there is something about being out in the tranquil setting of nature that has always made practicing meditation and mindfulness a little easier. I can tune into the sound of birds chirping, wind blowing, and feel the earth beneath me. I can tune out the negative self-talk, judgment, and fear of the past, present and future.
For those struggling with addiction, mindfulness can be a valuable tool for managing cravings, reducing impulsivity, and increasing self-awareness. We learn to observe our thoughts and emotions without reacting to them, which allows us to develop healthier coping mechanisms and make more conscious choices in our recovery.
The positive effects of spending time in nature for mental health and addiction is well-documented. Nature has a soothing effect on the mind and alleviates symptoms of anxiety, depression, and co-occurring disorders associated with addiction.
Moreover, spending time in the great outdoors can impart a sense of purpose, decrease mental distress, increase positive social interactions and provide a sense of perspective and clarity. This new outlook may allow enhanced insight into previous patterns of behavior that weren’t healthy and help to identify triggers related to substance abuse. Nature therapy offers a space for reflection, self-discovery, and personal growth, empowering individuals to make positive changes in their lives and sustain their recovery long-term.
Technology has, without a doubt, had a positive impact on our world today. It has also, without a doubt, had a negative impact. As we become more and more connected to our technologies and the digital realm, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and disconnected from ourselves, each other, and nature. For those in recovery from addiction, taking a break from the constant stimuli of city life and digital distractions can be immensely beneficial. Come out to the country and unplug. Your brain will thank you.
When we unplug from technology and immerse ourselves in nature, we have the opportunity to slow down, recharge, and reconnect with our inner selves. Nature provides a respite from the pressures of everyday life, offering a space for introspection and renewal.
Here at Country Road, nature holds a special place in our approach to treating addiction. While it’s not mandatory that anyone get outside and feel the earth beneath their feet; we have a feeling that if you do, you just might gain something good from it.
If you’d like to learn more about how we treat addiction and mental health, give us a call. We’d love to answer your questions, field your concerns, and help you find a path to recovery - even if it’s not with us! Call today.