Nature Treatment for Cancer: A Fresh Perspective on Healing and Recovery
Ecotherapy, blending the therapeutic potential of outdoor activities with an intimate relationship with nature, offers a new horizon in healing and recovery, particularly in nature treatment for cancer [1] [3]. This approach, deeply rooted in ecopsychology that emerged from California’s awareness of environmental degradation and existential unease, not only aids humans but also fosters the well-being of the broader natural world [2].
With an estimated 25-28% of modern medicines, including those for cancer treatment, being derived from natural sources, exploring plant-based compounds in nature treatment for cancer provides a promising avenue for holistic cancer treatment [4]. This underscores the power of herbs that fight cancer and highlights the role of meditation and the counsel of a cancer herbalist in healing cancer naturally, offering hope and a fresh perspective on recovery [4].
Understanding Ecotherapy
Ecotherapy, a multifaceted approach to healing, encompasses a variety of activities designed to foster connection with nature and, by extension, improve mental and physical health. Key practices include:
- Outdoor Activities: Hiking or forest bathing can immediately lessen stress and foster a deeper connection with oneself and the surrounding environment [1].
- Structured Programs: These may involve adventure therapy, animal-assisted interventions, care farming, and green exercise therapy, among others, aiming to harness the therapeutic potential of nature [5].
- Professional Guidance: Sessions often include the expertise of trained professionals focusing on activity rather than health outcomes, which can vary from gardening to wilderness therapy [5] [7].
Ecotherapy can be practiced in diverse settings, from parks and forests to farms, offering flexibility in how individuals connect with nature. Whether through solo activities or group engagements, the essence of ecotherapy lies in its ability to reduce depression, stress, and anxiety, while enhancing mood and overall well-being [5] [7] [8]. This therapeutic approach is not only suitable for individuals of all ages and abilities but also offers a complementary option alongside conventional treatments for various conditions, including anxiety, depression, stress, PTSD, and notably, in the context of cancer care [8] [9].
Impact of Nature on Psychological Well-being
Exploring the multifaceted benefits of nature on psychological well-being reveals a profound impact on mental health, particularly for individuals navigating the challenges of cancer recovery. Key insights include:
- Enhanced Mental Health Outcomes: Nature’s embrace fosters significant improvements in mood, stress reduction, and overall mental tranquility. Activities in green spaces or exposure to natural outdoor environments (NOEs) are linked with lower blood pressure, reduced cortisol levels, and an enhanced sense of happiness and well-being [2] [14] [16].
- Barriers to Access: While the therapeutic benefits of nature are universally acknowledged, access to high-quality natural spaces is not equally available to everyone. Socioeconomic factors, urban living, and physical disabilities can impede access to nature, highlighting the need for initiatives to reduce these disparities [12].
- Nature’s Role in Daily Life: Incorporating nature into daily routines can be as simple as spending time in local parks, gardening, or engaging with indoor plants. These activities bring the healing power of nature closer and promote physical activity, creativity, and social interactions, contributing to a more resilient and positive mental state [15] [16].
Real-world Applications of Ecotherapy in Cancer Care
Exploring the efficacy of nature-based interventions (NBIs) in cancer care reveals a promising avenue for enhancing survivorship and well-being. A scoping review identified 12 studies, involving 2786 participants with a mean age of 50.4 years, primarily focusing on breast cancer. These studies, mostly conducted in the United States, aimed to understand the role of nature in cancer patients’ coping mechanisms and to design sustainable NBIs [17]. Notably, interventions such as the One Nature Challenge (ONC) and the Tree of Life Fulfillment workshop have shown significant benefits. The ONC, integrated into a ten-week group exercise program, significantly improved aerobic fitness and reduced fatigue among participants [18]. Meanwhile, the Tree of Life Fulfillment workshop, combining art therapy with guided imagery, offered a unique approach to mindfulness, helping participants counter feelings of vulnerability and anxiety [19].
The Cancer Center for Healing in Irvine, CA, exemplifies the integration of nature-based therapies within holistic cancer care. Offering outdoor meditation and exercise programs, including yoga and tai chi, the center emphasizes the therapeutic potential of engaging with nature. Complementary therapies such as acupuncture, massage, and meditation further support the healing process, underscoring the multifaceted benefits of nature-based therapies such as reduced stress, improved immune function, and enhanced quality of life [20] [21].
Moreover, the incorporation of healing gardens in modern cancer centers and the provision of ecotherapy and other nature-based activities highlight the growing recognition of nature’s role in supporting post-treatment recovery and resilience among cancer survivors [9] [21]. These real-world applications not only affirm the therapeutic value of nature in cancer care but also pave the way for more inclusive and holistic treatment modalities, fostering a deeper connection between patients and the natural world.
Implementing Ecotherapy in Daily Life
Implementing ecotherapy into daily life can be both a simple and transformative process, offering a bridge to nature’s healing properties. Here are practical ways to integrate ecotherapy:
- Regular Nature Engagement: Aim for 20-30 minutes in nature, three days a week, plus additional time on weekends. This consistent exposure can significantly enhance mental well-being and stress reduction [2].
- Diverse Ecotherapy Activities:
- Home-Based Nature Interactions:
It’s important to remember that while herbal medicine and other nature-based interventions offer therapeutic benefits, consulting with healthcare professionals is crucial to ensure these treatments are safe and complement existing medical regimens without adverse interactions [11] [22]. Resources such as The Wildlife Trusts, Groundwork, and The Conservation Volunteers provide further information and support for those interested in exploring ecotherapy [15].
Conclusion
The exploration of ecotherapy and nature-based interventions in cancer care highlights a transformative approach to healing and recovery. Through the integration of natural environments and practices, there is a clear demonstration of the benefits that nature can offer to those on the journey of cancer recovery. The synergy between traditional medicinal approaches and ecotherapy underscores a holistic path to wellness, where the physical, emotional, and psychological impacts of nature coalesce to foster an environment conducive to healing and well-being.
As we consider the implications of this fresh perspective on cancer recovery, it becomes evident that the role of nature in the healing process is both profound and far-reaching. These findings not only advocate for the incorporation of nature-based therapies in cancer care but also emphasize the importance of accessibility to natural spaces for all. Encouraging further research and the adoption of ecotherapy practices provides a promising avenue to enhance quality of life and support resilience among cancer survivors. The blend of professional insight and the healing power of nature presents a compelling argument for a more inclusive and comprehensive approach to cancer care
About The Author
Ronald Bissell
Dr. Ronald Bissell is a retired surgeon, author of 6 books on Personal and Spiritual Growth, writer of numerous articles and facilitator of workshops. He has been giving talks to help people with life-threatening diseases for the past 10 years. After three years of chemotherapy he recently had a bone marrow transplant to treat Multiple Myeloma. His work now involves helping others with life-threatening diseases as well as teaching people how to live their best lives without fear or anxiety.
