It’s hard to deny the power of nature in our lives. We rely on the sun for an essential vitamin. Greenery and natural environments have been proven to boost mental health. Those who are struggling with sleep find comfort in the sound of night insects and other natural sounds. There is no denying that our overall health can improve with the power of nature.
The same is true for those struggling with addiction and its co-occurring mental health disorders. As a result, many mental health care and addiction treatment facilities choose to build their campuses next to nature. For facilities in major cities, efforts are made to include as much greenery as they can or make frequent “field trips” to pockets of nature. At Painted Desert Recovery, clients receive treatment in the beautiful wilderness of Utah. Here, clients can experience the majesty and power of nature along with compassionate and quality addiction treatment.
The power of nature is an important treatment aid that helps clients achieve recovery. To understand what a client can expect at Painted Desert Recovery, we must first understand why nature is so powerful.
The Power of Nature in Addiction Recovery
Nature can be healing. It’s why people who aren’t feeling well are encouraged to get plenty of sunshine and fresh air. Without it, our mental health can suffer. For example, the decrease in sunlight due to the change of seasons can cause seasonal affective disorder. People in general tend to feel more depressed during the winter months and then find their mood improving with the return of the sun. To boost mood and improve wellness, clients are often encouraged to spend time outdoors.
This is because nature also has another powerful effect. It puts life into perspective and brings hope to those who are struggling. People who are living with addiction often feel as though their whole world is consumed by it. It can be difficult to think of much else besides their addiction and the pain it creates. When they are exposed to the power of nature, it shows them that there is a source of wonder and joy.
Realizing that life is still beautiful and surprising can give people the strength they need to complete treatment and recover from addiction. This is especially true when they understand that they, too, are a part of nature and are equally wondrous and special.
The Painted Desert Recovery Approach
As mentioned before, many addiction and mental health care facilities are purposely utilizing the power of nature. They do this by choosing to have their campuses built near or within patches of nature. Painted Desert Recovery is no exception. The unique landscape of Utah teaches clients that even though the area seems to be a simple arid landscape, there is still beauty and life if you look for it. Clients gain an appreciation for the power of nature, internalizing its teachings to build confidence and self-love.
Located not too far away from Painted Desert Recovery is Zion National Park. Noted as one of the most beautiful of our nation’s national parks, clients can explore this natural wonder for reflection and recreation. Some enjoy activities such as hiking and horseback riding through the park, while others simply like to sit and soak up views. Stargazing is another popular activity, as the lack of light pollution allows one to see the stars in their entirety. For those who live and stick to major cities, Painted Desert Recovery gives clients the unique opportunity to enjoy wonders that are often regulated to documentaries on TV.
Therapies That Utilize the Power of Nature
There are many therapies used at Painted Desert Recovery that factor in the power of nature. Experiential therapy is a good example. This therapy works to replace traumatic memories with new and confidence-boosting ones. Sometimes it can go hand in hand with therapeutic recreation, which gets clients moving and active. It also allows clients to assume roles of leadership, showing them that they are stronger than addiction.
Equine therapy is another therapy that brings clients outside and into the power of nature. Animals can be a healing presence, especially to those who feel trapped in their addiction and trauma. In equine therapy, clients have access to beings who cannot judge them and are glad that they exist. It can be powerfully humbling to care for these animals. This shows clients that they are not bad people, as animals do not care about their past. They only care about what you are doing now.
Other therapies also make use of the power of nature when applicable. Some therapies, such as group therapy, can be conducted outdoors when the weather permits. This helps clients feel less trapped and anxious, allowing them to open up more to their fellow peers. Art therapy is another type of therapy that can take place outdoors when able. Having a sketchbook and being allowed to relax with your thoughts in nature can facilitate the communication process through art. Though not an official form of therapy, yoga as well as meditation are practices of wellness that are often conducted outdoors.
With the power of nature, people don’t just recover. They improve their lives by finding peace, connection, and joy. Human beings are often disconnected from nature. This can cause stress and a sense of something missing from our daily lives. Being able to once again connect with nature helps those who may have turned to addiction as a way to make them feel “normal.” Clients who finish treatment at Painted Desert Recovery leave with this rekindled connection, which inspires long-lasting recovery.
Nature is a profoundly powerful part of our lives. It’s so powerful that it can help those struggling with addiction and other mental health disorders find peace and healing. As our population grows, many people are cut off from nature entirely, which can be a detriment to their mental health. Here at Painted Desert Recovery in New Harmony, Utah, clients have access to the beautiful environment of Utah to assist in their healing. Located near Zion Canyon National Park, clients are reminded of the beauty of life and find joy in their recovery journey. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, don’t wait. Call (844) 540-0353 today.
