I truly believe nature is one of the most powerful sources of healing available to us. By separating ourselves from nature (in any way) and turning away from a natural lifestyle, imbalance in our body, mind and spirit can develop. From here, illness is only a step away. That’s why a natural approach is one of my main forms of medicine.
Some of the areas that I focus on include:
- The underestimated human need for silence, reflection and time out
- The healing power of nature’s elements
- Intuitive awareness, spiritual strength and mental conditioning through outdoor pursuits
There’s a saying in Norway - Ut på tur, aldri sur. Translated it means when out bush, it’s impossible to be in a bad mood! This is so true… Norway is also home to the life philosopy of ‘kos’ and ‘hygge’ - words that highlight the Scandinavian concept of keeping life simple and comfortable, and above all, in tune with nature, her seasons and elements.
I lived in Norway for six years and experienced kos and hygge in the depths of winter and at the height of midsummer. They are both well-established traditions that help Scandinavians maintain the perfect life balance no matter the season or situation.
Numerous studies from around the world have shown how essential our relationship with nature is for maintaining holistic health and balance. Whether it’s school kids spending more time outdoors learning and playing, or the growing interest in the Japanese art of forest bathing, our bond with nature reminds us of how inseparable we are from her.
“Look into the water, there you’ll see your reflection; look into the sky, there you’ll see a constant companion; look at the mountains, there you’ll find eternal support; look at the sun, there you’ll find a source to brighten your day and warm your spirit.”
Building and nurturing a close and deep relationship with nature as a part of a healing program is something not often considered today, but it’s one that’s essential to our health, well-being and understanding of life. Studies have shown how nature heals trauma, reduces stress, calms anxiety, balances mood, unveils unknown aspects of our self, eliminates duality, and keeps us whole.
Here are a few ways of connecting with nature on an essential level:
Wild swimming
Wild swimming is one of the most intimate and closest ways of immersing ourselves into nature. Removing our layers and sinking slowly down into water has to be the ultimate way of cleansing our body, mind and spirit. Wild swimming seeks out places where we can truly be alone in relatively untouched wilderness. The softness and peace felt after a swim provide a positive flow on effect in every aspect of our lives.
Dawn at Interlaken, Tasmania
Wild hiking
Hiking is about deep immersion in nature - and consequently, ourselves. A hike is the perfect place to build essential life skills and a sustainable life philosophy, such as self-care, patience, moderation, endurance, mindfulness, presence, insight, and intuition. Whether you’re a beginner or late bloomer, it’s never too late to find your path into the wilderness.
The fog lifts revealing Scott’s Peak, Tasmania
Wild caving
The mystery of the underworld conjures up a plethora of imaginations, e.g. excitement, fear, curiosity, and reverence. Caves are a symbolic portal into mother earth. They have been used as places of refuge, enlightenment and transformation for millennia. A deep respect for nature is acknowledged and nurtured as one goes caving. The underworld is not a world that we can control, but rather where we give up control. A cave’s silence, purity and originality, as well as its lack of interference by man, allow us the opportunity to be a unique part of something much greater and older than ourselves.
One of the public access chambers in Honeycomb Cave, Tasmania
The above are illustrative examples only - at the heart of nature as medicine is the fundamental human need to be in nature. Nature as medicine is as much being outdoors (being present, mindful, in the moment) as it is going outdoors. This means a simple walk in nature with a quiet mind may be more beneficial than any other outdoor activity. Sitting in harmony with your surroundings and yourself (bringing body, mind, and soul into balance) can unlock one of the most powerful healing sources and forces within each of us.
My service to you
- Nature as medicine is an integral part of my treatment plan
- Let me know your ideas, wishes and goals; we can meet in person or online to discuss these.
- If you’d like to hire me to take you out into our beautiful Tasmanian nature for a half day trip or a weekend under the stars, then please read on about my Outdoor Therapy service.
About my outdoor experience
I’ve been leading people on hikes for the past five years, and prior to that I organised all my long distance hikes, from route planning, map preparation, calculating food requirements, packing and delivering food drops, researching and testing gear, hiking and trail running in all sorts of conditions from snow, ice, rain, fog, sleet, heat, you name it. I believe I have a good foundation and I’m always learning and keen to learn more.
I have an up-to-date first aid certificate and experience in different terrains, climates and conditions. I always take emergency gear with me and I’ve also done a snake handling course in Tasmania.
There is always an element of risk involved in the great outdoors, and while I plan every session as thoroughly as I can, there are always unforeseen circumstances that can occur. I always endeavour to exercise a duty of care, and attempt to handle SHTF situations as best as I can, with the safety of myself and my client in mind.
Ultimately, please decide for yourself whether an outdoor therapy session is at an appropriate level for you, meaning that you are able to do it, and/or can do it together with my support (need a little motivation).
People often don’t realise what they are capable of doing and achieving. Fear, self-messages and previous experiences can narrow our understanding of our actual ability and potential. With the support and security of an experienced person, you can test out any mental limitations. Physical limitations are a different story though, and a session will be adjusted to compensate for your level of fitness and health.
Being outdoors does mean that you need a certain level of basic fitness. If you are unsure, ask. If you haven’t been active or outdoors for a while, that’s perfectly okay. If you have a pre-existing condition, then simply let me know, and I will accommodate you.
Any questions, please feel welcome to contact me on +61 (0)448 381 306 or by email.
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