I've just returned from the 5th International Adventure Therapy Conference in Edinburgh. This gathering of psychologists, therapists, counsellors mindfulness and outdoor practitioners takes place every three years. This event had participants from more than 21 countries ranging from Australia to Greenland, Britain to Singapore, all with the common aim of sharing best practice, looking at how we can help people and the planet.
As well as the numerous speakers and workshop leaders, there was the opportunity to take part in discussions and activities, including a worthwhile visit to the Labyrinth at Edinburgh University (see photo). The difference between a labyrinth and a maze? A maze is a place to get lost, a labyrinth a place to find yourself, an opportunity to focus, try one and see!
Therapy in the outdoors (whether called by Adventure, Wilderness, or any other prefix) means engaging with nature, using the outdoors as a therapeutic component in our lives, recognising our connection and place in nature and our impact on the planet as a whole as well as our local society. It is a way of engaging with the full spectrum of life that could make a massive difference to our personal and planetary well-being.
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