After having worked as a therapist in a wilderness therapy program, I learned a powerful therapeutic tool. My clients lived in the desert, for up to three months or more, away from the usual distractions of modern life, while joining a small working microcosm of society. It was in this context, they were able to take the time and space to connect with themselves and others, learn how to live with the basics and cooperate, and above all, start healing whatever had been hurting.
This is not new, this understanding of the benefits of nature on people’s well being. Yet we continue to build and nurture lives that take us away, and prevent us from building community close to the elements of nature. Just think of how and where we buy the food we eat, not to mention the constant four walls -concrete and cyber – that can isolate us from each other.
This article shares one story about how a very specific demographic – military single moms – dangered to feel isolated and lost post military, found connection and built lasting relationships with each other while and after camping in a New York park for one weekend.
You don’t have to go far, long and wild to plant the interplaying seeds of nature, healing and connection.
Finding Connection in the Woods: A Gift for a Lifetime
