Healing Effects of Nature

Catalog description

A course in which students learn and experience the physical, mental, and spiritual benefits of nature. Nature Therapy is a postmodern experiential approach based on the integration of elements from art and drama therapy, Gestalt, narrative, eco‐ psychology, transpersonal psychology, adventure therapy, and body‐mind practices. Students of all abilities can participate fully. The course will consist of a combination of classroom time, field time engaged in nature, and one weekend retreat to be announced at registration. All field experiences must be discussed with the instructor in advance for approval, but a wide range of options exist, including but not limited to “forest bathing”, outdoor yoga, hiking, biking, and many more. For each hour of credit, 45 hours of field experience in nature is required. All credit options are expected to attend the weekend retreat. A course fee to cover the retreat will be assessed at registration. Offered fall term depending on interest. 1 to 3 semester hours.