In episode 22 of Nature Therapy Online, I take a sunny Autumn walk here in Midlothian, Scotland. I ponder on the topic of simple nature-based conversation. I ask: does simply talking about nature have therapeutic effects? Click on the slim black player above to tune in. 

Something has been occurring to me this year about ecotherapy. I’ve noticed that when people talk about nature they feel good, and their mood seems to improve. I’ve learned this from working both online and with people in-person. Isn’t that interesting?

It’s important to state before I go any further that directly being in nature and connecting with it is what ecotherapy is, and that it should remain focused on that aim (in my opinion at least). However, I am also interested in other ways that we can plant positive ‘nature seeds’ in our mind!

It’s no secret that I do a lot of my ecotherapy work online. I run remote groups, courses and therapy sessions, as well as other projects (like this podcast and blog). I’ve noticed in myself that when I read and respond to people’s comments about their nature work (in my courses), that I tend to feel calmer and happier than I did beforehand. It doesn’t feel like work to me. Compared to pretty much every other kind of online communication, in terms of cultivating positive feelings, it wins hands down.

Obviously I am doing what I love, so in a way, it is to be expected. But what about simple conversation? Well, I’ve noticed that too— for example in online video groups I’ve facilitated via Zoom. Chatting about our experiences in nature: the processing, the memories, the reflections….it’s important. 

I’d go even a step further, and state that having a light bit of chit chat about nature with your friends can have a positive impact too. It might not be the aim of ecotherapy, but deliberately cultivating ‘nature chat’ instead of conversation on other issues I honestly feel can have benefits. 

Give this simple exercise a try this week: start some nature conversations. It can be with anyone, about any aspect of nature: birds you have seen, seasonal changes, the weather (we folk of the British Isles are very good at this topic), animals, whatever is present for you. See how you feel as you talk. See the impact it has on others (but don’t worry if not everyone is up for responding—not everyone enjoys a nature chat).

I do hope that you enjoy this week’s show folks. And finally, if you are in a position to support the podcast financially with a small regular donation (and receive nature-based rewards in return!), please consider becoming a patron of the podcast.

Green hugs,

Stephen x