Who are we and what are we striving for?
Our environment reflects ourselves. We humans have the responsibility of taking care of and reaping the benefits of what our environment has to offer: life-sustaining air, water, and food. But when treated improperly, the environment suffers, mankind is affected, and quality of life is reduced.
We can change the abuse our planet has endured. Environmental psychology can play a large part in influencing our thinking and actions. By engaging in healthier behaviors and actions, we can prevent much of our litter and waste from polluting the environment. However, this requires that we not only change our ways but also embrace a cultural shift in our mindset about the environment. A healthy, clean earth is the foundation for a healthy mind and body.
Ecopsychology is the process of creating a mindset of respect towards our environment. We humans live in relation to our environment, and the earth’s resources are what our lives depend on. Therefore, we should properly take care of our environment.
Our goals are to encourage and develop the mindset and behaviors that will enable us to be the best stewards of planet earth, taking care with the highest respect for our environment. Does our mindset move us to coexist with nature and live sustainably as a society, leaving the earth’s natural resources unharmed? Our behaviors and actions should move us to want to live in a clean environment. This is essential. Taking personal responsibility is an initial step; train your thought process to consider questions such as, “What can I do through my daily habits and lifestyle to not harm the environment?” Be an example in simple ways; for example, use sustainable products, make better choices, stay encouraged to recycle, and avoid intentional littering. Using and applying Ecopsychology—with a focus on respecting our natural environment and changing our mindsets and behaviors—will be a victory towards securing a clean environment.
Global Environmental Initiatives: Unplug and Connect with Nature Ecotherapy Initiative
Ecotherapy can help tremendously with limiting the stresses of life in this world. Today, many people are suffering because they are disconnected from nature. The modern digital world is upon us with computers, large flat-screen televisions, video games, virtual reality devices, and a plethora of other products. Plus, thanks to working in offices and cubicles made of glass, concrete, and steel, humans have become very sedentary, and surveys are showing major health problems associated with this lifestyle. The younger generation is extremely vulnerable, and mental and physical health studies are sounding the alarm to the critical problems this population is experiencing.
Nature can help in so many ways, improving mental and physical health. Many people have to deal with anxiety, stress, depression, burnout, and sadness, while Ecotherapy—being outside in nature—can calm, relax, and reinvigorate. Plus, being outdoors can amplify health benefits; for example, it can lower blood pressure, reduce anxiety, and improve cardiovascular health. Simply taking a walk at the park or beach; hiking in the mountains; observing the wildlife; learning about trees and flowers; and—as a popular saying goes—taking the time to “smell the roses” are fun ways to get outdoors. You can also meditate and exercise, working to keep your body fit and in motion. You can even participate in a litter cleanup event alone, with friends, or in a volunteer group; many communities have regular activities like this planned to help people connect with each other and feel rewarded for helping to clean the planet. These suggestions can generate enormous health benefits within natural settings.
Mental and physical health is important, and Ecotherapy can have a great impact on our well-being, used alone or in conjunction with traditional therapies provided by a professional. We need to embrace all the benefits of what nature can offer as we balance our time with electronics in today’s fast-paced world.