Nature’s Healing Power: Finding Peace Through Outdoor Grief Support

“There is something infinitely healing in the repeated refrains of nature— the assurance that dawn comes after night and spring after winter.”

Rachel Carson, “The Sense of Wonder”

Understanding Grief’s Impact

Losing a loved one or experiencing another traumatic life event is devastating to the human spirit. The resulting grief may exhibit as emotional or psychological pain, anxiety, depression, despair or feelings of isolation. It may seem overwhelming and insurmountable. Although every journey through grief is as unique as the person experiencing it, scientific research shows that for all of us, proximity to and immersion in a natural environment has healing benefits—both physical and mental.

Whether it’s a walk in the park, a hike through the mountains or simply sitting by a tranquil body of water, nature has the ability to calm us, to comfort us and to lift our spirits. Nature provides a refuge from our immediate circumstances and promotes a greater sense of well-being. Nature encourages us to connect with a calmer, quieter world, while helping us feel more at peace. It promotes physical activity, engages our senses, encourages social interaction and enhances our well being. Quite simply, nature restores us.

Local Nature-Based Grief Support

Vicki Eber, Therapeutic Program Coordinator for the Peggy F. Murphy Community Grief Center, is well versed in the benefits of regular interaction with nature. Vicki knows from her own life journey how beneficial being in nature can be. As an avid walker, she knows regular hikes keep her centered. Vicki is also passionate about ACRES Land Trust and its mission to protect land: “It seems like a natural fit to pair grief support groups with an opportunity to experience local natural environments.”

Joining the Healing Journey

This innovative approach has led to a series of guided nature hikes at select ACRES properties throughout the season. Key program features include:

• Expert-led walks by Vicki and ACRES staff
• Small group sizes for personal attention
• Free access to all participants
• Support from experienced volunteers
• Regular scheduling throughout the season

How to Participate

Starting in January 2025, Stillwater Hospice is partnering with ACRES for another year of Grief Hikes. Hikes will take place on the third Friday of the month at 10 am. Registration is required for all hikes and can be completed through the Stillwater Hospice website. The program aims to provide both emotional and psychological support while building participants’ confidence to explore nature independently.

A Community of Support

Vicki hopes the security of going for a hike with others for the first time “will inspire the confidence to go on their own in the future” and that “ACRES will provide an access point for participants to find their own healing.” Vicki is quick to point out that ACRES “free and open-to-all” access is consistent with the services provided by the Grief Center.

All of their grief services are free to any adult experiencing the loss of a loved one. “You don’t have to walk alone.”