5 Evidence Based Benefits of Ecotherapy

As an ecotherapist, I often hear a common thread from the clients I work with: “I didn’t think therapy was for me—until I got outside.”

If you feel confined or uncomfortable in traditional therapy settings, you’re not alone. Many people find that stepping outside—literally—makes it easier to open up and connect with what really matters.

This is the heart of ecotherapy: using nature as an active part of the healing and growth process. And it’s not just a feel-good idea—it’s backed by science.

Below are five evidence-based benefits of ecotherapy. These ideas reveal how powerful nature can be, especially for people who want something more grounded, embodied, and real.

1. Nature Lowers Stress—Fast

Studies show that time spent in natural settings reduces cortisol (the stress hormone), lowers blood pressure and calms the nervous system.

What this means for you: You feel less on edge. Less reactive. More in control of your own body and thoughts.

Try this: Take a 20-minute walk in a green space—no phone, no podcasts. Just you, your breath and the sounds around you.

2. Nature Lifts Mood and Fights Depression

Research shows that ecotherapy and “green exercise” (like hiking or walking outdoors) can significantly reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

What this means for you: A natural mood boost, without needing to sit under fluorescent lights or talk about your feelings in a chair.

Try this: Once a week, trade your gym workout for time in the woods or on a trail. Let movement and fresh air do their part.

3. It Makes Processing Emotions Easier

Being in nature helps regulate the nervous system, making it easier to access and process difficult emotions or memories. The non-judgmental environment of the outdoors often helps people feel more grounded and less exposed.

What this means for you: You don’t have to force vulnerability. You just walk, talk, move, or even stay silent—and the healing happens naturally.

Try this: When something feels heavy, take it outside. Let the trail or shoreline hold space while you sort through it.

4. Improves Focus and Mental Clarity

Nature restores what's called "directed attention," giving your brain a break from constant stimulation and helping you refocus.

What this means for you: You’ll feel less mentally cluttered, more decisive, and more present—in your work, your relationships, and your own headspace.

Try this: Eat your lunch outside. Step away from your desk or the job site. Ten minutes can reset your day.

5. Reconnects You to Meaning and Purpose

Ecotherapy has been shown to increase a sense of connection—to self, to others, and to something larger than yourself. Whether that’s nature, spirituality, or just a break from the noise—this connection matters.

What this means for you: You may feel more grounded in who you are. More clear about what matters. More alive.

Try this: Spend time in a place that feels meaningful to you—mountains, forest, river, ocean. Let yourself be quiet and see what rises.

This Isn’t About “Just Getting Outside”

Ecotherapy isn’t a walk in the woods for the sake of it. It’s therapy—deliberate, guided, and intentional—done with nature, not just near it. For many people, it offers a way into healing that feels more honest, embodied and natural.

Whether you're facing stress, burnout, emotional numbness, grief, or just that lingering sense that something's missing—this work can help.

Ready to Try a Different Kind of Therapy?

If you’re curious about how ecotherapy might work for you, I offer 1:1 sessions in natural settings that are:

• Grounded and real

• Centered on your goals

• Tailored for the way adults and adolescents process, heal, and grow

If you are open to trying ecotherapy, let's connect. Send an email to my HIPAA compliant address: https://sendsafe.to/wesmurph@hotmail.com 

Tell me your name and what you are struggling with. I'll get back to you within 48 business hours.

Thank you for reading! I look forward to connecting!