‘Everything Just Seems Much More Right in Nature’: How Veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Experience Nature-Based Activities in a Forest Therapy Garden

This research explores how nature-based therapy (NBT) can help veterans struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study involved eight Danish veterans who participated in a 10-week NBT program in a forest therapy garden. The program combined mindfulness exercises, nature-based activities (NBA) and individual therapy sessions. Researchers collected data through interviews with the veterans at different points during and after the program to understand their experiences with nature and the activities. The study found that the veterans experienced the therapy garden as a safe, accepting place with few demands, which helped them to relax and become more aware of their surroundings and their own feelings. They also found the nature-based activities meaningful and motivating, and they appreciated the supportive approach of the staff.

The analysis of the interviews revealed three main themes: (1) “taking nature in,” (2) NBA as a facilitator of a therapeutic process, and (3) nature as a part of life with PTSD. The veterans’ preferences for locations within the therapy garden shifted over time, from secluded spots to more open, public areas as their mental and physical capacity improved. The veterans reported that NBT helped them find ways to incorporate nature into their daily lives for relaxation, restoration, and coping with stress.

Poulsen, D.V., Stigsdotter, U.K., Djernis, D., & Sidenius. U. (2016). ‘Everything just seems much more right in nature’: How veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder experience nature-based activities in a forest therapy garden. Health Psychol Open, 3(1), 2055102916637090.