The Healing Power of Nature

Prior to joining Mendel Psychological Associates I was a Wilderness Therapist at a Wilderness Therapy Program in North Carolina. It was a tremendous experience to witness children and adolescents find empowerment and healing through learning about their natural environment and living in the forest.

Many of us have had profound experiences of our own in nature and seek outdoor experiences, including a simple walk in our neighborhoods, as often as possible. During busy times it is easy to be swept along by our schedules and forget to take time to experience nature for ourselves and with our children. With spring upon us, as a Therapist, I am reminded of the wonderful healing opportunity nature offers.

Last week I had the privilege of meeting with one of my child clients during a glorious spring afternoon. He is seven years old and about to be adopted for the second time; I will call him Michael.

Michael is sad and struggling more than ever in school. This bright, creative, social child is becoming increasingly withdrawn as the transition from one family to another progresses. As we moved from swings, to sandbox, to monkey bars, activities he adores, it became clear how clouded his seven year old magic had become.

Boy running in the woods

I found a little box among the toys I brought and invited him on a nature walk in the sparse woods that surrounded the playground. At first Michael was reticent but intrigued. As I began pointing out the small details of buds, leaves, and rocks Michael’s interest and enthusiasm grew. Then a hawk landed several feet away from us and we got to see it look for food by the stream. Soon Michael was pointing things out all around us and our nature box began to overflow with beautiful objects. My heart filled to see some of Michael’s zest for life return and when our session was over he was excited to connect with others and show them the inside of our nature box.

As a child that has experienced several wounding interruptions in the consistent nurturing and safety every child needs, he himself is something to behold. Next week we will be planting seeds together for him to tend in his windowsill. My hope is that tending the every day miracle of a sprouting plant will help him to continue being able give and receive care with others.