What is Bush Adventure Therapy?

Bush Adventure Therapy is an evidence-informed nature-based health intervention that is widely used internationally, particularly in the US. There it has a longstanding therapeutic reputation having been used since the 1940’s. It harnesses the healing power of Nature and demonstrates how human beings benefit from this essential relationship. In a world where time outdoors is rapidly decreasing, this is of great importance to the health, healing, resilience and well-being of people.

Connect & Explore was founded with the vision to create a model of care that combines the best aspects of outdoor education, experiential and embodied learning, and therapeutic practice. Connect & Explore’s unique suite of nature-connected programs are based on decades of lived experience.

  • There have been many names for this kind of therapy including: adventure therapy; wilderness therapy; outdoor therapy; outdoor health; and outdoor adventure interventions. We are a member of Outdoor Health Australia the Australian Association for Bush Adventure Therapy in Australia, which has been instrumental in the work to create a culturally appropriate name for the work we do.

    They say, “The new terminology recognises that ‘wilderness’ may be seen as a colonizing term (implying ‘people-free’) that ignores the Indigenous presence in the land. The new title of Bush Adventure Therapy emphasizes relationships with the natural environment in our work and practice.

    The word ‘bush’ is relevant in the South Pacific region because it encompasses the whole range of natural environments, from local urban parks to vast remote natural environments (including coastal areas, mountains, rivers and deserts).

    Our understanding of the term ‘adventure’ includes activities in mind, body and spirit for people of all ages and stages. Our understanding of the term ‘therapy’ is inclusive of general therapeutic outcomes and the specific intent of therapy.”

  • Many of the people we work with have a deep mistrust of adult figures and are battling the stigma around mental illness and therapy. So the idea of sitting in a room with an adult that is unknown to them and talking about their trauma and their feelings is unrealistic. We use bush adventure therapy as a tool to help us engage with children, young people and adults. They are much more likely to come for a bush walk, swim or climb than participate in conventional therapy. We pick them up from school, work or their homes and provide all the equipment needed. This unique model really takes the pressure off them to talk and instead puts the focus on the activity which allows us to create a deeper bond with them long-term. It also means they learn new skills and are physically active.

    Another benefit is the exposure and connection to nature that we help people develop which will serve them long into adulthood. Studies have shown that exposure to nature can improve attention span, creativity, mental health, mood and physical wellbeing. There are also countless profound metaphors found in nature that can be used in therapy.

What is Breathwork

Breathwork is a term that encompasses a range of breathing exercises designed to enhance physical, spiritual and mental health. It is used in yoga, tai chi, qigong and even psychotherapy to promote healing, health and self-awareness. Breathwork therapy has become increasingly popular since the 1970s and is thought to help those suffering from chronic pain, anxiety, PTSD, grief and depression.

 

Breathwork is believed to clear the lungs, thereby improving lung capacity and respiration. It is also thought to oxygenate the blood, thereby energizing and healing the body's cells. Mentally, breathwork promotes focus and concentration.

  • Mindfulness requires us to be aware of what's around us and how our bodies feel. Meditation is a practice that reels in our thoughts to calm the mind. These two terms are similar because they both aim to help our well-being, but while one encourages awareness, the other works to create singular thoughts.

  • Micro moments throughout the session you will experientially be guided through breathwork and meditation practices. These are practical, engaging and fun tools that you can continue using in your life to create more wellness, focus, joy, resilience, love and healing. These micro moments can range from 1min-30min depending on the focus and situation.

    Can including walking, stillness, breathing, tapping our bodies, squeezing, looking, smelling just to name a few.

    Weaved throughout the sessions are education and experiential learning around nutrition, intention setting and skill building in the areas of life you desire to focus on.

  • It is normal to have questions and thoughts pop up when saying yes to something new and unknown. I will always check in with you to ensure you feel safe and supported. We will pick spots in nature that feel safe and secure to try these practices. The beauty of these tools is that they are fun and accessible for any age, level or ability.

    P.S. I was nervous and doubtful these practices worked when I first tried, then I experienced the life changing benefits. Its something you need to experience for yourself, so dont believe me and try for yourself.