Research

Movement

Many participants found walking or gentle movement essential in early grief, offering emotional release, space to reflect, and a less pressured way to talk to others.

Nature as a Guide

Participants often found that nature offered gentle insights, metaphors, or moments that supported their ability to grieve.

Nature's Core Conditions

Nature often felt accepting, non-judgemental and emotionally holding. Supportive people such as facilitators or attendees in group settings also contributed to these conditions.

Natural Approaches to Grief

Several participants called for an approach to grief that recognises its continuity and allows openness. Nature helped offer a space where they could grieve in their own way, free from societal pressures.

Yearning for Nature

Some described an instinctive pull or need to be outdoors.

Interconnection

A strong sense of belonging in natural spaces was often described, a connection both to 'something bigger', the wider natural world, and to the groups or individuals they shared these experiences with. Nature often provided a setting that strengthened these interpersonal connections.

My Research

My Masters Research study explored how seven people experience nature or nature-based therapy during bereavement. Key themes that emerged across the interview data included:

Movement

Nature as a Guide

Nature's Core Conditions

Natural Approaches to Grief

Yearning for Nature

Interconnection

The findings present how nature can play a meaningful role in navigating grief, offering connection, a reflective space and even support and guidance.

Recognition

Nature