An Eco-Therapy Informed Art Practice
By: Jordan Gryscavage
What is eco-therapy?
Eco-therapy is the practice of ecology-driven psychology rooted in indigenous belief systems. In this modality of psychology, humanity's severance from the Earth is part of what creates stress and anxiety. The goal is to reconnect with the Earth and practice a reciprocal relationship with nature.
Eco-therapy can be practiced indoors and outdoors. Art practice can be brought outside to a comfortable space in nature, using the environment’s natural colors and textures as inspiration. Alternatively, inside spaces can still be informed by eco-art practices through window-gazing, objects from nature brought indoors, or even houseplants. All nature is welcome.
Creating an eco-therapy informed art practice
Grounding
“Grounding”, placing the feet or body on the Earth, is a technique typically implemented in eco-therapy. The purpose is to communicate and notice the Earth through tactile experience. Art is naturally a tactile experience, whether it be 2D, 3D, or even digital.
Ritual
Start and end practice with purpose, creating a space of intention. Create smoke. Burn incense, candles, or herbs from your bio-region. Have a warm cup of coffee or tea. Set your intention for the day’s practice. All rituals are unique and personal, the goal is to create an environment that fosters creativity. My favorite way of incorporating this technique is through lighting local herbs, like juniper that a friend gave to me, while thinking of my intention for the day.
Create from Nature
Find stones, rocks, flowers, plants, and twigs to assist in the creation of your work. Make your own plant-dye and natural pigments. It is important that this relationship be respectful, what are you learning from the Earth? Making pigments from the Earth is a learning process, check out our workshops.
Permission and Gratitude
Recognizing and acknowledging eco-therapy stems from indigenous practices is vital. Indigenous peoples* have often been overlooked and disrespected. It is important to hear and respect all voices; honoring and listening to traditional bio-knowledge and stewardship.
Interested in Eco-therapy?
All information was gathered from an interview with therapist Olivia Krawtchuk. Learn more about eco-therapy and holistic practices on her website, https://www.seedsofhealingtherapy.com
*The use of the term indigenous in this article is used to refer to the original tribal nations that inhabited North America.