What is

Nature-Based Physical Therapy?

Where would you feel more at ease and in tune with your body? A busy and noisy street or a quiet natural space? Most would pick the latter. John Muir once said, “In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.” Being out in nature provides us with a sense of calmness and presence in our environment. It stimulates every sensory system we have: visual, smell and touch in a positive way, which translates to positive neuroplasticity! Physicians now recommend nature prescriptions; in Japan, it’s called shinrin-yoku, also known as “forest bathing,” and is a prevalent form of preventative medicine. Research has shown that walking outdoors, even as little as 15-20 minutes daily, significantly enhances our well-being.

Here's How

Reduces Stress

Multiple studies have demonstrated significant reductions in blood pressure and the stress hormone cortisol, decreasing the risk for stroke, cardiovascular disease, anxiety, and many other health issues. One scientist from Japan demonstrated that plants and trees release phytoncides (substances that protect them from germs and insects) that give us therapeutic effects similar to aromatherapy when inhaled.

Improves Cognition

Being outdoors sharpens our focus and challenges us to be present in our environment. Experiencing all the smells, colors, sounds, and even temperature changes enhances our ability to sustain attention, even after leaving the outdoors.

Decreases anxiety and depression

A 2017 study found that individuals with healthier amygdalas (one of our stress centers) tended to reside closer to forests or areas with more significant tree populations. Researchers couldn’t confirm that the environment altered the brain structure, but several studies have found a positive correlation with living closer to nature and demonstrating improved emotional processing and a more positive demeanor.

Improves vision

While out in nature, our vision has to process different colors, movements, lighting, plants, animals, and countless other things. As a result, reports have shown that people who spend more time outdoors tend to have less nearsightedness.

Boosts The Immune System

While immersed in the outdoors, research has confirmed reductions in inflammatory proteins, stress hormones, neural chemicals, and less activation of the sympathetic nervous system (fight or flight system), all of which contribute to different diseases that affect your nervous system.

More and more research is coming out on how exercising in nature can make more meaningful changes than being in a closed space. You can engage all your senses and be more aware of your body mechanics. At Mountain Neuro Wellness and Physical Therapy, you have the option to partake in outdoor exercise routines or programs while working on functional goals.

Dr. Irina enjoys being outdoors and has seen firsthand the transformations individuals with neurological presentations have made when they are outside. She can work with you to create strategies to get outdoors safely, focus on fundamental principles related to your outdoor activities and help you achieve your goals while getting out in nature. A nature emphasis can apply to physical therapy or wellness services depending on your needs and goals. If this isn’t for you, there are other services available.