Just a few months ago we started offering Ecotherapy sessions in Charlotte and WOW – my gratitude for clients joining me on the trails is overflowing!
Some days our sessions have been walking and talking, and other days we have been delving into deeper topics of healing. Here are some of the autumn ecotherapy takeaways:
The trees that are changing colors are considered ‘broad-leaved’ trees (maples, oaks, birch, sycamores, etc.) These are considered vulnerable trees, because they cannot withstand the upcoming cold of the winter. In order for these trees to survive, they MUST go through the change process. Our vulnerability does not undermine our strength. In fact, the process of change requires constant energy, pushing from our roots all the way through to the colors we present to the world around us.
Some trees here in Charlotte (pines, spruces, cedars) have built a tough exterior that protects them through the winter. When we stop to notice these trees, we can acknowledge their consistency in remaining vibrant, green, and full during a season of change. How have some of our traumatic experiences led us to building that “strong exterior” to withstand any sort of storm? Instead of seeing our impenetrable outside as a negative quality, let’s validate how it has helped us to survive and show up.
When walking in an autumn forest, our feet land in a collection of what nature is recycling. Yes, autumn is a time of shedding and letting go but let’s not forget that our roots will soak up the lessons of what we leave behind. These roots will show up as our inner wisdom – tune in and compassionately pay attention to your lessons learned.
As autumn continues to be in full bloom here in NC, I hope that you can take some of these ecotherapy insights through the rest of the season.
For the next few months the evenings will be dark and I’ll be scheduling ecotherapy sessions in the mornings and afternoons Monday-Friday (no we’re not stopping through the winter!) I’m looking forward to offering some indoor ecotherapy based events in the Charlotte area – stay tuned!
Written by Shikha Patel, MSW, LCSW, Owner & Founder of Collaborative InSights, LLC
