Emotional and Psychological Well-being:

  • Reduces Stress and Anxiety: Spending time in nature lowers cortisol levels, the body's primary stress hormone, and activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation.

  • Improves Mood and Increases Positive Emotions: Exposure to natural environments boosts the production of serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters associated with happiness and well-being.

  • Alleviates Symptoms of Depression: Studies show that time in nature can reduce symptoms of depression and improve overall emotional state.

  • Enhances Emotional Regulation: Nature provides a calming space that can help individuals process and manage difficult emotions more effectively.

  • Increases Self-Esteem and Confidence: Engaging in outdoor activities and overcoming challenges in nature can foster a sense of accomplishment and self-worth.

  • Promotes Mindfulness and Presence: Nature naturally encourages a focus on sensory experiences, bringing individuals into the present moment.

  • Fosters a Sense of Connection and Belonging: Feeling connected to the natural world can enhance a sense of purpose and one's place within a larger system.

  • Reduces Feelings of Isolation and Loneliness: Group-based nature activities can foster social interaction and build supportive relationships.

  • Supports Trauma Recovery: The calming and grounding presence of nature can create a safe space for processing traumatic experiences.

Trail Therapy FAQ:

  • Be ready for your session and the weather. Your therapist will discuss what you need to bring and what you are responsible for. (Waiver required)

  • Poor weather is not an excuse-however sessions can be changed to online/in-office if needed.

  • Insurance may cover your session if it is 53-60 mins. Insurance will not cover your session if you want to do longer sessions, which we recommend for intensive style treatment and quicker recovery.

  • Mindfulness, EMDR & EFT can be done effectively while outside walking.  Trauma recovery can be faster when engaging in experiential treatments. 

  • Yes, we can help if you or your child wrecked on their Mountain Bike, crashed while skiing, or experience fear while outdoors.  

  • We use locations close to Logan, Utah. (unless otherwise arranged.)

Trail-Therapy

Everyone talks about how beneficial it is to go outside to improve our mental health, overcome fear, and gain a greater mind-body-earth connection--but are you doing it? 

Cognitive Benefits:

  • Improves Focus and Attention: Natural environments provide a respite from the overstimulation of modern life, allowing for restoration of attention and improved concentration.

  • Enhances Cognitive Flexibility and Working Memory: Some research suggests that exposure to nature can improve various aspects of cognitive function.

  • Increases Creativity and Problem-Solving Skills: The unique stimuli of nature can inspire new ways of thinking and enhance creative abilities.

Physical Health Benefits:

  • Lowers Blood Pressure and Improves Cardiovascular Health: Physical activity in nature, even gentle walking, can contribute to better heart health.

  • Strengthens the Immune System: Exposure to phytoncides, chemicals released by trees, may boost immune function.

  • Increases Physical Activity Levels: Nature provides opportunities for enjoyable movement, such as hiking, gardening, and walking.

  • Improves Sleep Quality: Spending time outdoors and reducing stress can contribute to more restful sleep.

Other Benefits:

  • Increases Environmental Awareness and Stewardship: Direct experiences in nature can foster a deeper appreciation for the environment and a desire to protect it.

  • Provides Opportunities for Skill Development: Activities like gardening, wilderness survival skills, or animal care can build practical abilities and a sense of competence.

  • Offers a Cost-Effective and Accessible Therapeutic Modality: Engaging with nature is often free or low-cost and can be incorporated into daily life.