E. L. Powell, Author
Reading and Writing All Sorts
Green Care for physical & mental health is not a new thing …
In my third book, A History of Nursing, research showed using nature for physical & mental health is not a new thing. Admittedly, before the onset of modern medicine, all people had was nature and herbs (some of which are still used today in synthesised form such as aspirin and morphine). However, more evidence shows now how being outside – be it around a local park or up a mountain in the Brecon Beacons – can have a positive effect on health.
Hippocrates (5th century) – “Sickness is not sent by the gods or taken away by them. It has a natural basis. If we can find the cause, we can find the cure.”
Hildegard von Bingen (12th century) “Regardless of how viriditas (nature prayer) is translated, the word is full of life. It is entwined with Hildegard’s teachings and beliefs, in her music, art, writing, and her study of the natural world. Whether you are tilling your Hildegard healing medieval garden, or taking a walk in the woods, or just learning ways to invite health and wellness into your life, viriditas is a powerful reminder of the importance of our connectivity with nature and of acknowledging the life and beauty all around us.”
Carl Sagan (20th century) “We humans look rather different from a tree. Without a doubt we perceive the world differently than a tree does. But down deep, at the molecular heart of life, the tree and we, are essentially identical.” (Cosmos)
- ‘A new study has been published by Natural England which reviews the benefits and outcomes of approaches to green care for mental ill-health.’ www.gov.uk, 2016
- ‘Around 30 per cent of all people with a long-term physical health condition also have a mental health problem, most commonly depression/anxiety’ www.kingsfund.org, 2012
And this wonderful poster from Wildlife Trusts to highlight nature for #mentalhealthday
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©2018 Emma Powell
All photos in public domain
E. L. Powell, Author 