How the Six Step Nature-Based Therapy Model can Change Your Mind, Body and Behavior
People are exposed to various problems and diseases due to rapid social and lifestyle changes. In particular stress is a major threat to the quality of life and health, and stress that continues for a prolonged period has negative effects on health. While several studies have showed that natural environment offers psychophysiological healing effect there are few studies have looked into the healing process involved.
Researchers have developed a Six-Step Model of Nature Based Therapy by analyzing individual empirical data on "Forest Therapy Experiences".
This model reveals that the process involves an integrated way of healing with emotional and cognitive changes. Participants experience positive emotional change first, followed by cognitive changes and finally behavioral changes.
Here is how the six steps lead participants through fundamental emotional, cognitive, and behavioral transformation:
Phase 1: Emotional Change (Communication with Nature)
The healing journey begins when the natural environment stimulates a shift from negative to positive emotions. This initial phase is driven by the psychological mechanism of “communication with nature”.
1. Stimulation
This is the important starting point for healing and change. Participants feel better and refreshed because of the positive sensory effects of the forest. This step can bring positive emotions like joy, happiness, curiosity, and fascination which helps recover the senses and sensibilities.
2. Acceptance
In the acceptance stage, participants can experience feelings of reassurance and a sense of being supported. Their minds are opened during this emotional exchange.
3. Purification
Purification involves overcoming and dissolving negative feelings. Participants vent and release negative energy in the quiet forest. This step is characterized by the ejection and resolution of negative emotions like pain, anger and worry. As the mind is emptied and washed, participants can become more relaxed and generous so they can afford to look back and reflect on themselves. Purification acts as an important mediator that allows for the subsequent phase of insight.
Phase 2: Cognitive Change (Communication with Oneself)
Once participants are in a more relaxed and stable emotional state, the process evolves into cognitive changes. This important shift is achieved through the mechanism of “communication with oneself”. Positive emotions help individuals relax psychologically and restore resources depleted by stress which can promote thinking more clearly and creativity.
4. Insight
This is regarded as the most important stage in the nature based therapy process. Participants experience awakening through self reflection and meditation, leading to communication with their inner self. The core phenomenon in this stage is a “change of thought”. Participants may realize the cause of their problems, discover the meaning and purpose of life, and regain their identity. Insight can be promoted by observing the strong vitality and survival methods of animals and plants.
5. Recharging
The fifth stage is recharging, which involves being filled with positive energy. Participants can gain hope, courage, confidence, and positive thoughts. This energy provides the will and desire for life, and allows them to overcome difficulties and prepare for the future. Recharged with positive energy, participants are prepared to go back into the world.
Phase 3: Behavioral Change (Communication with the World)
The final stage is the manifestation of recovery in the participant’s daily life. This phase of behavioral change is guided by the mechanism of “communication with the world”.
6. Change
In this last stage, participants show recovery and changes mentally and physically. They begin to live healthier and happier lives. Changes are evidenced by accomplishments and improvements like relationship restoration, securing new employment and or careers. Participants adopt positive attitudes and values, which can ultimately lead to self realization.
