#examples of ecotherapy | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

caucasustour · 8 months ago

Text

The Ultimate Georgia Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Tired of the same old travel destinations? Are you dreaming of getting lost in a land where ancient history whispers from every mountain peak and the scent of delicious food fills the air? Georgia is the escape!

Best Time to Visit Georgia

Georgia’s climate is generally mild, making it a year-round destination. However, the best times to visit are during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the scenery is breathtaking. Springtime is a feast for the eyes with blooming dogwoods and azaleas, while fall paints the landscape in vibrant hues. Summer can get hot and humid, especially in southern Georgia, but it’s also the season for festivals, concerts, and beach trips.

Must-Visit Places in Georgia

The Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and the Jvari Monastery are prime examples of the country’s religious architecture. These UNESCO World Heritage sites are must-visit destinations. These ancient churches, historical monuments, and scenic locations make them integral parts of any Georgia travel guide. Check out the Caucasus Tours�� The wonderful Georgia, a rich 5-day sightseeing tour. Do not worry this package will cover all the places which you should not miss out on.

Located in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Blue Ridge is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway offers a delightful ride through the mountains and along the Toccoa River, showcasing some of the best views in the area. Hikers will enjoy treks such as the Appalachian Trail and the Benton MacKaye Trail.

Now let’s dive into something unique which this place has to offer.

Tskaltubo is a well known destination for tetra cave therapy. This unique cave ecotherapy is a non-medicinal treatment using the microclimate of natural karst caves, benefiting the lungs – One of a kind experience you should not miss.

Next up is Borjomi, a renowned mineral water therapy place. This includes the practice of using mineral-rich spring waters for healing which is also supported by numerous studies. Mineral spring therapies offer a unique blend of natural healing and wellness. Include Borjomi in your itinerary and feel the richness the place has to offer.

Do not forget Shekvetili. Shekvetili is known for its magnetic sand therapy. Wondering what magnetic sand therapy is and why to visit this place? The healing properties of magnetic fields have been recognized in modern medicine and is referred to as magnetotherapy. Check out this place to immerse yourself into this experience.

Accommodation in Georgia

Georgia boasts a range of hotels, from affordable budget options to luxurious five-star establishments. Hotels in major cities like Tbilisi and Batumi offer modern facilities, convenient locations, and various amenities to cater to different preferences.

Top hotels you can consider:

Castello Mare Hotel & Wellness Resort is a premier destination for those seeking both luxury and relaxation. Nestled between the Black Sea and lush pine forests, the resort offers stunning panoramic views, making it a perfect getaway for travelers looking to escape into nature without compromising on comfort.

Borjomi Palace– Situated in the heart of the famous Borjomi region, Borjomi Palace Hotel & Spa is a stunning accommodation choice for those visiting Georgia’s renowned mineral water town. The hotel combines modern comfort with historical elegance, offering spa services, indoor pools, and easy access to the town’s mineral springs. Visitors can indulge in the therapeutic benefits of Borjomi’s natural springs while enjoying views of the surrounding mountains

Guesthouses are a popular choice in Georgia, offering a chance to experience the country’s renowned hospitality. These family-run establishments provide comfortable rooms, home-cooked meals, and the opportunity to interact with locals, making your stay more personal and authentic.

For budget travelers and backpackers, hostels are a great option. Hostels in Georgia are affordable, often centrally located, and provide shared facilities like kitchens and common areas, making them a social and cost-effective choice.

Remember this: Booking in advance, especially during the high season, can help secure lower rates! Using accommodation booking websites, checking reviews, and considering locations outside the city center can also result in more affordable options.

Georgian Cuisine and Wine

A Georgia travel guide is incomplete without talking about its much-famous cuisine. Influenced by various cultures, the cuisine is a delightful fusion of tastes and textures that reflect the country’s history and geography.

Famous Dishes to Try

Some of the must-try dishes in Georgia include Khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), Khinkali (dumplings), and Satsivi (chicken in walnut sauce). These dishes are a testament to Georgia’s culinary diversity and creativity.

World-renowned Georgian wine

Georgia is considered the birthplace of wine, with a winemaking tradition that dates back over 8,000 years. The country’s unique winemaking methods, using large clay jars called qvevri, produce wines with distinct flavors that are gaining international recognition. With its ancient qvevri and diverse grape varieties, Georgian wines boast complex flavors and aromas. From the full-bodied Saperavi to the refreshing Rkatsiteli, Georgian wines offer a journey through centuries of tradition and terroir. Enjoy Georgian wines, chacha (grape brandy), and other local spirits.

How to Get to Georgia?

Georgia is well-connected to the rest of the world, with major international airports in Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kutaisi. Direct flights from Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Asia are available, making Georgia easily accessible. Overland travel from neighboring countries is also an option.

Visa and Entry Requirements

Georgia offers visa-free entry for citizens of many countries for short stays, typically up to 90 days. For others, an e-visa system is available, making the visa application process straightforward and convenient. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.

Georgia is calling your name

Is Georgia on your list now? As you plan your journey through the Peach State, remember that Georgia’s warmth is not just in its climate—it’s in the hospitality of its people, the richness of its culture, and the beauty of its surroundings. So pack your bags, set out on an adventure, and discover why Georgia is a destination that truly has it all.

Source - https://georgiaexplore.com/georgia-travel-guide/

#travel agency #travel company #travel agent #travelling #Caucasus tours

0 notes

thedarkthingcreator · 2 years ago

Text

The Healing Power of Nature: How Ecotherapy Supports Mental Health

In today's technologically and urbanized environment, the significance of maintaining a connection to nature for mental health has become paramount. This idea, sometimes referred to as ecotherapy or nature therapy, has drawn a lot of interest lately as a comprehensive strategy for enhancing mental health. The therapeutic potential of nature offers a haven of respite and renewal as the stresses of contemporary life continue to contribute to increased rates of stress, anxiety, and depression.

The Disconnect in Cities

There is a cost to the conveniences and opportunities that come with living in a metropolis. A sensation of disconnection from nature and sensory overload may result from the unceasing bustle, blinding lights, and loud noises. The pressures of the modern lifestyle frequently leave people with little time for peace and quiet. as well as reflection. Studies have indicated that this metropolitan disconnection might result in many mental health problems, such as elevated stress levels and reduced cognitive abilities.Nature's Healing Power

Ecotherapy acknowledges that nature has a major effect on mental health. Time spent in natural settings has been associated with lowered levels of stress and anxiety, elevated mood, longer attention spans, and increased creativity. Natural environments' visual and aural cues cause the brain to go into relaxation mode, which lowers the release of stress hormones. The psychological benefits of nature are so great that they are now being included into a number of treatment modalities.

Immersion in Mindful Nature and Forest Bathing

The Japanese ecotherapy method known as Shinrin-Yoku, or "forest bathing," is one of the most well-liked types. It entails entering a forest and paying attention to the sights, sounds, and scents of the surrounding environment. globe. According to scientific research, taking a forest bath can boost immunity, elevate mood, and lower cortisol levels. This exercise emphasizes the value of mindfulness and being in the present moment, which are fundamental components of numerous mental health treatments.

The Mood-Boosting Power of Nature

Beyond its potential to alleviate stress, nature possesses a special power to uplift the spirit. Endorphins, also known as "feel-good" hormones, are released when people interact with natural environments. Feelings of optimism and contentment can be fostered by the sense of wonder that frequently follows experiences with the grandeur of nature. These experiences of being in nature, whether it be through the captivating sight of a starry sky or the calming sound of the waves, leave a lasting impression on one's mental and emotional health.

Community and Connection

Ecotherapy stresses a person's connection to others and the greater environment in addition to their interaction with nature. Engaging in community gardening initiatives or group outdoor activities promotes a sense of

acceptance and societal assistance. Those who experience emotions of loneliness or isolation may find that these connections are especially helpful. A strong sense of purpose and camaraderie can be fostered by participating in a group project that revolves on nature.

How Ecotherapy Is Used

The therapeutic value of nature is becoming more widely acknowledged by therapists and mental health specialists. To supplement conventional therapeutic modalities, several practitioners include ecotherapy practices into their practice. Outdoor group therapy sessions and more intense experiences like wilderness therapy are examples of nature-based therapies. The intention is to establish a secure environment where people may examine their feelings, practice self-reflection, and come up with coping mechanisms all in the comforting embrace of nature.

Healing That's Inclusive and Accessible

The accessibility of ecotherapy is one of its amazing features. Nature can be found in metropolitan parks, gardens, and even indoor plants; it is not just located in secluded forests or immaculate beaches. For people with physical disabilities or other limitations that prevent them from accessing outdoor areas, nature-themed hobbies such as gardening

Similar advantages can be obtained through virtual nature experiences or therapy. More people are able to take advantage of ecotherapy's healing potential because of its inclusive character.

An Attempt to Reconvene

Ecotherapy becomes a potent self-care tool when more people recognize the significance of mental health in their lives. It promotes making a deliberate effort to unplug from electronic devices and re-establish a connection with the outside world. Engaging in activities such as gardening, taking a leisurely stroll in a park, or just stargazing can significantly improve mental and emotional health.

When life's stresses seem too much to handle, nature is a reliable ally in fostering mental wellness. Ecotherapy's ability to cure serves as a reminder that we are not only a part of nature, but also an integral element. Through just going outside and taking up the breathtaking scenery

of the natural world, we set out on a path of introspection, recovery, and deep connection.

For more resources and treatments related to mental health, visit Goodlives!

0 notes

cgmayra · 6 years ago

Note

How will you write Mighty and Knuckles being in a relationship ( not with each other dont take it the wrong way!! XD ) ? And how to make them NOT out of character?

Almost didn’t let you slide with that XD

So, from what I gather, here’s my best kinda ‘hypothesis’ on the matter.

Knuckles is a little easier because of all the data we can find on him. Especially with his relationship and interaction with Rouge, we get a better inkling of what a romantic relationship would be like for him.

(Knuckles blushing, lol)

So, Knuckles is very much about duty, honor, and valor. He’s a hot-head, naive and gullible person, but he’s also very knightly in that he really does respect and take things seriously. He has might, yes, but he also has a heavy enough heart to weigh the aggression he sometimes feels down a notch.

Knuckles is actually quite playful, once he figures out what he’s doing. (LOL) What I mean by this, is that in his interactions with Rouge, if he doesn’t know she’s coming on to him, he is rather suspicious of her actions (already, anyway…) and tends to be clueless. However, when he is aware, he can get easily flustered and his hot-headedness shows though.

This is one example, the scene where Rouge makes a comment and he flips out, but you can also see he thinks he’s being teased. (Kinda is, lol)

Another thing is Knuckles isn’t afraid to “Bite back” in a relationship. (no, that’s not a dirty comment) What I mean is, he’s not shy about having an argument or fighting back. This is actually really healthy. (No, anger or violence is not healthy, and is not what I’m talking about) Talking through issues or situations, getting passed anger and holding back aggression is something Knuckles is actually really wise in doing. Yes, he can get angry, but to solve an issue? He’s willing to talk and not put something off, not disregard the other person. He’s sorta considerate that way.

Because of this, he’s able to ‘banter’ back in a romantic relationship, causing playful spats and fun ‘play fights’. So this ‘combative’ nature is not always a bad thing, it means he’ll always engage so long as his partner lets him know what’s going on.

Working together is another big thing. Knuckles has spent most of his life in isolation, so being able to work as a team (Or even not to constantly be stubborn and fight) is something he’s still working on. If his partner is able to help him improve his weaknesses, there is a humble side to Knuckles as well. He recognizes that he needs his partner, and hopefully, that means his partner needs him too.

Besides what we see with him and Rouge (Even him saving her at one point) we can also tell by his personality that he wants to be helpful and useful. He wants to understand, it’s just difficult for him. He’d need a strong-willed person to get him going since he can be stubborn and combative. But again, it’s because he’s not shy to communicate that can help his partner see his true intent. Knuckles has a pure heart, and he shows this by trying to help out and oftentimes being the first one to jump in and try and do something when bad things are going down.

Moving off of Knuckles for a second-

From what I can gather (canonically) about Mighty, is that he’s got a good heart and strong ambitions towards pacifism and nature. He’d go well with someone of a calm or kind disposition. He also seems to enjoy traveling, so someone who wouldn’t mind the ‘nomadic’ lifestyle would fit him well.

In all honesty… A hippie. Hook him up with a hippie, no-shoes, tree and grass loving activist and you’re good. (LOL HE LIKES “FOREST BATHING”. I MEAN, COME ONNNN…)

Wiki Define: “Nature therapy, sometimes referred to as ecotherapy, describes a broad group of techniques or treatments with the intention of improving an individual’s mental or physical health, specifically with an individual’s presence within nature or outdoor surroundings. One example of a nature therapy is forest bathing or shinrin-yoku, a practice that combines a range of exercises and tasks in an outdoor environment. Garden therapy, horticultural therapy, Kneipp therapy or even ocean therapy may also be viewed as forms of nature therapy.” (x)

This guy would buy essential oils. Give him a partner who cares about mental, physical, and social well-being. He’s not into the social stuff as much as the nature therapy for mental, emotional, and physical health. So someone spiritual and social would definitely balance out his character a bit, though he may resist it a little, he might crush hard soon enough. To me, he seems like someone who would fall in love slowly but soon–all at once. (lol)

However, while watching some of the Mania Adventure clips, there is more revealed about him here I’d like to address.

For one, he is willing to fight if necessary; however, if he can find a better solution, he will. He doesn’t mind making people worry (Due to his ‘missing’ streak) but he still deeply does care about his friends, even willing to surrender the Chaos Emerald for someone he holds dear. (Which also makes me think he’d be greatly upset if his romantic interest got captured or was imprisoned. Considering how he was once imprisoned by Eggman as well, I’m sure his resolve would be very aggressive in getting them back. A “gentle giant” might fit this stereotype for his nature.)

“You still hurt my friend and are evil! I won’t let you get away with this! If you’re gonna run, I’ll find you! I’m getting that Emerald back!” - an estimate of what he might sound like.

I also headcanon he’s attracted to strong people. I’d have to imagine that someone had to be strong to put up with him xD Physically and emotionally, I think Mighty is a quiet character who will step up and be subtly romantic, but I think his partner would have to get through his hard shell first.

What I mean is, Mighty is constantly wandering around and doing his own thing, so his partner would have to find a way to be apart of that lifestyle, showing him they can stay beside him in that regard.

I also feel like, with things I’ve observed from him, that he’s extremely loyal. I think it would be easy for him to experience heartbreak, but he’d take it quietly and without showing it too much. Though I think he could love deeply, he probably hurts just as badly… Find him a sweetheart who loves nature and flowers, peace over war, and maybe knows some epic fighting moves and can smash a boulder with their bare hands and I think you’ve nailed his perfect partner lol

How was that? :) I’m sure there are many ways to interpret these characters in a romantic relationship. So feel free to surmise or headcanon you’re own possibilities! After all, characters grow and change when meeting new people and being introduced to new situations in their lives. So if you can give a plausible circumstance, meaningful reasoning, and determine from there what the character would do? I think you’d be able to create a lot of different mates for these two wonderful characters!

And that’s all I’ll say for now ^^ Thank you for your ask, precious anon!

#mighty the armadillo #knuckles the echidna #sonic #sonic the hedgehog #sonic mania #sonic x #sonic shipping #cutegirlmayra #sonic couples #cutegirlmayra ask #ask cutegirlmayra

95 notes · View notes

thegreenwolf · 5 years ago

Photo

Ecopsychology and Neopagan Relevance

Note: This post was originally posted on No Unsacred Place in 2011, and then later Paths Through the Forests. I am moving it over here to my personal blog at http://www.thegreenwolf.com/blog so I can have more of my writings in one place.

Ecopsychology: the psychology of how we relate to the natural environment, and the therapeutic application of the restorative qualities of nature.

When I enrolled in a counseling psychology Master’s degree program in 2008, the single biggest magnet for me was the series of three ecopsychology courses that were offered. I had read Bill Plotkin’s Nature and the Human Soul: Cultivating Wholeness and Community in a Fragmented World, which explained human psychological development in part through one’s relationship with nature.

Through three straight semesters, I learned the basics of ecopsychology and who some of the key figures were; I also explored how to incorporate a client’s relationship to nature in their therapy, along with family history, spirituality, and other important parts of the client’s experience. I even spent four days out in the woods with other students learning hands-on wilderness therapy techniques. (I also gave a presentation on how Alan Moore’s run of the Swamp Thing comic book could be used in ecotherapy, but that’s a story for another time.)

Not surprisingly, I discovered much that enhanced my neopaganism. Furthermore, I saw a wealth of material that could be relevant to neopaganism in general, as well as elements of neopaganism and related paths that could enhance the development and practice of ecopsychology. I wasn’t the first person to make the connection of course; on the contrary, some of the very foundational concept of ecopsychology are quite relevant to nature-based paganisms.

Here are just a few of the salient points:

–Ecopsychology helps to explore and understand the development and maintenance of a nature-friendly mindset.

Why do we enjoy being out in the wilderness? What is it that makes us respond better to a tree than a live plasma-screen movie of the same tree?(1) What are the effects of disconnection of nature, both on an individual and systemic basis? Ecopsychologists seek to not only find answers to these questions, but to utilize the information in helping clients achieve better states of mental health. Many pagans are already familiar with the relaxation that can result from a weekend spent camping, or the difference between an indoor and outdoor ritual; ecopsychology provides additional insight as to why we may feel that way.–Ecopsychology sets the individual firmly within the context of the ecosystem they are a part of, human and otherwise.

One of the criticisms that ecopsychologists have of much of modern therapy is that while the average therapy intake form asks clients about their family members, significant others, home life past and present, and other human relationships, it doesn’t ask about the client’s relationship to nature. As psychology, particularly applied in counseling, takes an increasingly systemic view of people and their mental health, research and anecdotal evidence alike deny the (particularly American) ideal of the “rugged individualist”. Rather than an island, each person is part of an interconnected greater system, and the natural world is a part of that. Ecopsychology gently reminds us that our very minds and perceptions are inextricably linked to our environment, something that many neopagans have been living consciously for years.

–Ecopsychology meshes well with nature-based religion.

From its inception in the late 20th century, ecopsychology has always been closely entwined with spirituality, especially (though not exclusively) nature-based spiritual and religious paths. Even the anthology Ecopsychology, which came out in 1995 and is considered one of the foundational texts of the subject, included an essay by Leslie Gray entitled “Shamanic Counseling and Ecopsychology”. Whether theistic or not, spirituality is an intrinsic part of the right-brained tendencies of ecopsychology, and paths ranging from neopaganism to Catholicism(2) have been explored within ecopsychological writings.

–Ecopsychology lends itself well to ritual practices.

Joanna Macy and John Seed’s Council of All Beings rite, and Mary Gomes’ Altars of Extinction(3), are just two of many examples of how ecopsychology has delved into ritual as a way of healing and processing the profound level of grief many feel at the destruction of the environment. Ecopsychologists recognize ritual as a structured way for clients to process and work through life experiences past and present; additionally, as many neopagan rituals tend to be focused on the bright, celebratory side, an exploration of the processing of grief may be valuable to our spiritual communities.

As you can see, just in these few examples there are plenty of areas of overlap between ecopsychology and neopagan interests and practices. Our relationship to the world, to include that expressed in spirituality, depends heavily on our perceptions and cognitions; we cannot experience and interpret what is around us without the filters of our senses and our thoughts. Ecopsychology is a formal, though often quite organic, exploration of that relationship between personal microcosm and universal macrocosm.

1. There’s a great study done a few years ago that demonstrated just that; you can read the paper that resulted at http://faculty.washington.edu/pkahn/articles/520_kahn.pdf

2. During my first ecopsych course, one of the co-authors of the excellent text, Care for Creation: A Franciscan Spirituality of the Earth, spoke at one of the classes. Those readers with a particular interest in interfaith dialogue may be interested in the book, though it’s an enlightening read in general.

3. The Altars of Extinction project was featured in issue #96 of Reclaiming Quarterly: http://www.reclaimingquarterly.org/96/96-altarextinct.html

Did you enjoy this post? Please consider supporting my work on Patreon, buying my art and books on Etsy, or tipping me at Ko-fi!

#ecopsychology #ecotherapy #pagan #paganism #nature #mine

27 notes · View notes

blankslateblog · 5 years ago

Text

Can Cars Become folklore? Exploring the Future of our Streets Post-Coronavirus

It’s 7:30pm on a Monday night in August. We are in the heart of our nation’s capital. Yes, D.C. always clears out around this time of year, and yes, it is raining right now, but this summer night is different. We are on month six (give or take) of the coronavirus pandemic here in the United States, and our streets have undergone a drastic transformation. In the time it took me to write these first few sentences, only 5 cars have driven by my window. This would have been unheard of in the heated rush hours of Before Times. As Taylor Swift languidly reflects in her song, august, “But I can see us lost in the memory / August slipped away into a moment in time.” While maybe Taylor isn’t contemplating automobile ephemera like me, her sentiments about fleeting memories have never seemed more true. Our society has entered a new normal in every facet of our lives, and our streets are no different. Coronavirus has presented us with both extreme challenges and opportunities, leading many to question if we can leverage the positive, interim changes and seeming concessions into permanence.

It seems as if our view on cars being indispensable to the American Way of Life is immutable, however many are hoping to change this. Farhad Manjoo, an opinion columnist for the New York Times, recently published a piece titled, I’ve Seen a Future Without Cars, and It’s Amazing. His thesis: Why do American cities waste so much space on cars? While this idea may be nothing new, Manjoo’s angle of focusing on space came at an apt time as society reckons with isolating in small, urban spaces, quarantining in cities once as dynamic as its transient residents, and transitioning to experiencing our neighborhoods at street level. We are being forced to confront truly living in our immediate surroundings, in a way that we may not have wanted to, or been conscious of, before. I thought I knew my neighborhood like the back of my hand, but my quarantine walks have taught me that I was sorely mistaken. In the past month I have discovered 3 community gardens, 2 cemeteries, and 1 park all within a 30 minute walk of my apartment.1 Greenspaces have become a refuge for me now more than ever. Having worked with the Parks Research Lab at William & Mary and ParkRx America in Washington, D.C., greenspaces have always been a research interest of mine. Pro-tip: If you are yearning for some ecotherapy like me, you can utilize ParkRx America’s database (located on the homepage) to “prescribe” yourself a local greenspace to visit. Now, the idea of space, be it “green” or other, has taken on a whole new meaning during the pandemic. As I type, limited to my small, city apartment, I am reflecting on Manjoo’s visceral appeal for us to optimize how we are using and creating space.

ParkRx America’s mission is to decrease the burden of chronic disease, increase health and happiness, and foster environmental stewardship, by virtue of prescribing Nature during the routine delivery of healthcare by a diverse group of healthcare professionals. Source: ParkRx America Resources

As an environmentalist, I have been celebrating the recent dearth of cars in my own city, and the proliferation of “Open Streets” and “Open Restaurants” movements across the country as the pandemic progresses. Notable examples include: Oakland's Slow Streets, Seattle's Stay Healthy Streets, and Paris' “Corona Cycleways.” Many of these initiatives have been championed by individual communities or tactical urbanists for years, but for the general public these ideas are just now becoming mainstream as we adhere to Stay at Home orders and live more locally. Scenes like Karsten Moran’s photo, below, of Mulberry Street in Manhattan evoke the plaza-culture of cities abroad. Having traveled often outside of the U.S., I always wonder why our streets don’t feel like theirs. Is it a problem of planning? Of people? Of both? Cars seem like an easy culprit, but maybe they are just a scapegoat symbol for the individualism of American society. As public health experts reckon with the threat of American individualism in combating coronavirus, can we instead channel this obstacle into collective action to improve our streets?

NYC Open Restaurants’ Siting Criteria has ushered in a new era of ‘tactical urbanism’ founded on quick-fixes, often utilizing the mishmash of materials on hand. Source: NYC DOT

“New York City’s sidewalks and streets have sprouted oases that evoke destinations from the Greek isles to the New Jersey Turnpike. In Manhattan, Mulberry Street, which was dotted with sidewalk seating before the pandemic, now features in-street dining.” Photo Credit: Karsten Moran; Source: Outdoor Dining Offers Fresh Air and Fantasy to a City That Needs Both

It is critical to explore who we are “improving” our streets for, who these changes will benefit, and who is calling for them. How would open streets impact BIPOC? People living with disabilities? Essential workers? Many urbanist activists are “challenging the practice of quick-build infrastructure projects like Slow Streets that eschew multi-year and multi-stage construction projects in favor of timely progress and rapid feedback.”2 In D.C., Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White effectively banned Slow Streets from his ward, which is over 92% Black according to DC Health Matters, with an amendment to the law permitting them stating, “Many residents in Ward 8 have not supported bike lanes and other measures that appear to force aspects of gentrification and displacement.” Dr. Destiny Thomas, a Black transportation planner and organizer, explores these ideas and more in the article, ‘Safe Streets’ Are Not Safe for Black Lives. I highly recommend reading her article first, before I outline a few of her ideas here. Dr. Thomas explains that the onslaught of slow streets and bike lanes during the pandemic was a “nightmare” due to their lack of participatory planning. She states, “by design, their ‘quick-build’ nature overrides the public feedback that is necessary for deep community support. Without that genuine engagement, I feared that pandemic-induced pedestrian street redesigns would deepen inequity and mistrust in communities that have been disenfranchised and underserved for generations.”3 If planning is to become anti-racist, it must center and amplify the voices of communities members through inclusive methods such as participatory planning and budgeting, youth engagement, and other targeted outreach efforts. As we know, racial justice and environmental justice are interconnected, and Dr. Thomas goes on to explain how these initiatives “fail to address the environmental factors at the root of these health disparities. Encouraging Black residents to go outside without addressing the environmental crises that lead to COVID-19 complications is a tell-tale sign that Black well-being was a secondary (at best) intention of these projects.”3 Black access to the outdoors has long been limited, as illustrated by national park visitation statistics: although Black Americans represent 13.4% of the U.S. population, a 2018 study, People of Color and Their Constraints to National Parks Visitation, indicates that they represent less than 2% of national park visitors. Keya Chatterjee, a D.C.-based climate activist who organized ad hoc street closures in the first few months of the pandemic, believes projects like Slow Streets can mitigate harm to Black residents, including from air pollution and COVID-19. Chatterjee argues, “I do think that building things quickly, that result in a lower loss of life, in a situation where that loss of life is clearly based on racial injustice, is the only way to move towards justice.”2 Decreasing the number of cars operating in our cities would lead to significant reductions in toxic air pollution which currently disproportionately affects communities of color. However, we must not make these decisions in a vacuum; input from affected populations is indispensable.

Black visibility in public spaces and streets challenges the racist, ableist, and classist ideas historically underpinning “who should have access to ‘outside’ and how they should be allowed to access it. Without a plan to include and protect Black, Brown, Indigenous, trans, and disabled people, or a plan to address anti-Black vigilantism and police brutality, these open streets are set up to fail.”3 Dr. Thomas outlined seven concrete ways to address racism and inequity in transportation planning specifically:

Public works and transportation agencies should produce and publish a concrete plan for divestment from police agencies. This includes both fiscal and values-based components: Enforcement should be replaced with accessibility and accountability, and funds to police should be redistributed to community-based organizations, direct service providers and behavioral health specialists that are equipped to uphold dignity and care for everyone within the built environment.

Quick-build projects don’t solve the disparities caused by the legacy of racist planning and disinvestment. In order to be transformative, infrastructure projects should have a comprehensive environmental justice plan as a prerequisite, and basic public works should be up to date prior to implementation. This includes proper drainage and floodplain planning, addressing pavement heat indexes, upgrading underground utilities, reducing toxic industry in the vicinity, accessible curbs and crossing opportunities, adequate shelter and shade, and dignified support for curbside residents.

If you want to ban cars, start by banning racism. Planners should make an intentional effort to address scarcity across all modes of transportation so as to empower freedom of movement and choice in mobility. This should include free assistive devices, bikes and bike accessories, free transit, subsidized rideshare, and economically equitable access to zero-emissions vehicles. Until Black people are no longer being hunted down by vigilantes, white supremacists and rogue police, private vehicles should be accepted as a primary mode of transportation.

Design low-stress street networks that specifically center the safety of and joy-filled travel by Black people. These routes, networks, wayfinding elements, and reparations-centered policies should derive from a participatory process that includes the voices of Black people, people living with disabilities, trans people, elders and youth.

If your leadership can’t speak to racial equity, you should not be releasing a statement. If your organization, agency, or firm is/has released a racial equity statement in solidarity with the Movement for Black Lives, you have an obligation to ensure that your workforce is reflective of those values and the treatment of your Black employees is consistent with these values. Stop asking your one Black employee to write your equity statement overnight.

Employee agreements for transit and transportation agencies need to be modified so that no one is forced to serve the needs of law enforcement. No one should face retribution or punishment for opting out.

Bikeshare operating agreements should include mandatory long-term anti-displacement and equitable distribution plans to ensure bikeshare as a mode choice is equitable across the geographic region.

As a new “student” of planning, I am just beginning my studies into the racist history of planning, however I am eager to share with you new resources I have found as I begin to educate myself and work to amplify BIPOC voices in planning. I recently attended a webinar titled “Design for Everyone: An intro to Urban Planning & Design” hosted by Form Function Studio featuring BlackSpace, a collective of Black urban planners, architects, artists, activists, designers, and leaders working to protect and create Black spaces. The BlackSpace Manifesto consists of 14 guiding principles encouraging us to Celebrate, Catalyze, and Amplify Black Joy, Protect and Strengthen Culture, Seek People at the Margins, Center Lived Experience, Be Humble Learners who Practice Deep Listening, Reckon With the Past to Build the Future, among many others.

BlackSpace created this manifesto to guide their growth as a group and their interactions with partners and communities to work towards a future where Black people, Black spaces, and Black culture matter and thrive. Source: https://www.blackspace.org/manifesto

As we return to the tension between cars and space in our cities, we must investigate who owns these cars, and how car-owners are profiting off this status. In D.C., only about 6 in 10 D.C. residents have a car, and those who do are overwhelmingly wealthy and white compared with those who don’t own one.5 Additionally, the federal government provides subsidies through the tax code for employer-provided and employer-paid automobile parking, transit passes, and other commuter expenses, but it does so inefficiently and inequitably.6

“Ultimately, the effect of the tax benefit for commuter parking is to subsidize traffic congestion by putting roughly 820,000 more cars on America’s most congested roads in its most congested cities at the most congested times of day. [Beneficiaries] tend to work in areas where parking is most expensive (such as downtown business districts), with those in higher-income tax brackets receiving the greatest benefits. The parking tax benefit represents $7.3 billion in reduced tax revenue that must be made up through cuts in government programs, a higher deficit, or increases in taxes on other Americans.”6 - TransitCenter and Frontier Group

Similar to how the pandemic is helping those who are already ahead to stay ahead, the parking tax benefit merely serves to hurt lower income populations and non-car owners, a demographic with a lot of overlap.

In I’ve Seen a Future Without Cars, and It’s Amazing, Manjoo is told, “instead of fighting a war on cars urbanists should fight a war on car dependency - on cities that leave residents with few choices other than cars. Alleviating car dependency can improve commutes for everyone in a city.” Focusing on urban scarcity, from accessible, alternative transportation to affordable housing, to inclusive food systems, will force us to question how we are often allocating space in our cities for the benefit of cars (as if they are CarsTM) rather than the people living in them. As Manjoo has outlined, “in most American cities, wherever you look, you will see a landscape constructed primarily for the movement and storage of automobiles.”7 We cannot “continue to justify wasting such enormous tracts of land” on cars as we strive for more equitable and inclusive urban spaces.7 It is also important to acknowledge that this piece comes at a unique time, when city dwellers and suburbanites alike are vying to escape the sprawl, antsy from months of quarantine. Even I have been wishing I owned a car to set out on some, any, kind of spontaneous adventure. The unknown of life post-coronavirus is daunting, but in the chaos lies a little bit of hope. Perhaps we can channel this sliver of optimism to design for the future we are all hoping for. I know I still want the “old Taylor” back, just not all the cars that came with that era.

But do you remember? Remember when I pulled up and said "Get in the car" And then canceled my plans just in case you'd call? Back when I was livin' for the hope of it all, for the hope of it all

Inspired by “august” by Taylor Swift. Stream on Spotify.

Citations:

Washington, D.C. greenspaces discovered during quarantine; Gardens: Columbia Heights Green, Upshur Community Garden, Wangari Gardens; Cemeteries: Rock Creek Cemetery, Glenwood Cemetery; Park: Crispus Attucks Park

Do DC's Slow Streets Benefit Everyone?

‘Safe Streets’ Are Not Safe for Black Lives

People of Color and Their Constraints to National Parks Visitation

Opinion | The high cost of DC's cheap parking

Subsidizing Congestion

Opinion | I’ve Seen a Future Without Cars, and It’s Amazing

1 note · View note

naikisdesignstudio · 3 years ago

Photo

Re-evaluating my concept

- From week 6′s presentation and feed back, I realised that my idea lacked a solid concept. I had a few elements that I wanted to in cooperate, however I did not successfully combine them together.

Therefore, in order to solidify my concept, I gathered and organised my ideas on paper. I further researched into certain ideas that I thought could centre my concept. This included information about ecotherapy and in particular the practise of “grounding” and how this is scientifically and spiritually supported.

There were words and phrases that stood out on the paper, for example, ‘Ambience’, ‘embodying Waihorotiu stream’, ‘grounding’, ‘earthing’, ‘ecotherapy’. In my formative feedback, It mentioned to deepen my conceptual statement and bring in some poetic language, hence I think that these words could be included in my final statement.

Furthermore, I included Waihorotiu stream back into this concept plan to acknowledge what was originally situated here, and how I could bring this back into present time.

Research:

https://thecalmspace.co.uk/2020/08/05/walking-barefoot-on-the-earth/

https://welldoing.org/article/earthing-benefits-being-barefoot

https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/wellness/could-walking-barefoot-on-the-grass-improve-your-health-the-science-behind-grounding/2018/07/05/12de5d64-7be2-11e8-aeee-4d04c8ac6158_story.html

0 notes

johnfroiland · 3 years ago

Text

How Spending Time in Nature Can Improve Happiness

If you want to increase your happiness, stepping outside may be the answer. Spending time in nature may assist patients with a number of mental health concerns, including mild to moderate depression, according to research. Indeed, ecotherapy, which combines regular physical activity, social interaction, and time spent outside, has been demonstrated to boost mood. Being outside, for example, at certain seasons of the year may benefit persons suffering from seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, a disease that causes people to feel dimmer and more irritable.

People who feel linked to nature are happier and more content with their lives. Getting out in nature may help us feel a range of positive emotions, such as worthiness, joy, and fulfillment. Being able to interact with nature is also a terrific method to improve our attention. Furthermore, it has been related to decreased sadness, anxiety, and other mental health issues. As a result, spending time in nature is one of the most essential things you can do for yourself.

Researchers from the University of Exeter's European Centre for Environment and Human Health performed a research in which 20,000 participants took part. They discovered that persons who spend at least two hours each week in green spaces had better health and happiness than those who do not. The advantages of these sessions were uniform across subgroups, and no time limit was imposed on participants. However, spending at least two hours each week in nature may be required to have a favorable influence.

Nature has been linked to improved mental health in recent research. A major research of 120 participants exposed to natural and urban areas found that their mood and heart rates improved dramatically. They also demonstrated greater empathy and collaboration. While the science is still in its early phases, academics are defining a path for policymakers and the general public. They must act as quickly as feasible! It is well worth the effort!

Spending time outside has also been found in studies to help people connect with one another and with the planet. Residents of Chicago's public housing were more conscious of their neighbors, and their community felt more linked and unified. They also showed reduced levels of anxiety and sadness. People who spend time outside were also more inclined to volunteer in their communities. This is only the top of the iceberg. The advantages of spending time in nature do not end there.

Nature's impacts on happiness have been demonstrated to vary depending on a person's age, gender, and emotional state. Nature's psychological advantages include improved cognitive performance and reduced stress and despair. Similarly, it reduces concentration fatigue, boosts creativity, and boosts happiness. More study is needed, however, to understand the sort and quantity of nature encounters that make individuals happy. If these results can be repeated in a research, they should be extensively used.

Forest bathing is a Japanese tradition that is said to promote health. People who participate in this exercise have healthier hearts, fewer gastrointestinal diseases, and a lower chance of developing visual difficulties. A connection to nature has also been related to a decreased BMI in studies. People who exercise outside feel less weary and gain less weight. Nature's good benefits on happiness will be seen for decades to come.

A new research compared strolling in the woods versus walking in the city. The researchers allocated comparable lengths and difficulties to the walks and measured the individuals' blood pressure, heart rate variability, and mood. Participants who went for a stroll in the woods reported feeling happier and less stressed. This is consistent with prior study, which suggests that spending time in nature benefits college students' mental health. It is crucial to highlight, however, that the effects of spending time in nature rely on individual aspects such as the amount of time, frequency, and duration of time spent.

A easy method to boost your mental health is to spend time outside in nature. Spending time in natural settings decreases stress and sadness, and adding plants to your house may bring aesthetic charm. Plants are also known to filter the air, which makes them ideal for residential gardening. This is only one of the numerous things you may do to boost your happiness and mental health. So, get outside today and enjoy the pleasures of nature.

0 notes

creatinginangkalikasan · 4 years ago

Text

Examples of full spread image

Here is an example of some of my images for the other two segments ‘bush’ and ‘horizon’ I want to include my own photographs of my places, since this is a personal journey to Biophilia and effects of Ecotherapy for me. I have increased the vibrancy of the natural colours to make it pop. I’m still unsure on this image treatment as of the cohesiveness when put together in a publication will go off.

0 notes

pbacklinks · 4 years ago

Text

Tips For Staying Positive During Difficult Times

New Post has been published on https://pingbacklinks.com/tips-for-staying-positive-during-difficult-times/

Tips For Staying Positive During Difficult Times

Staying positive during difficult times will lower the magnitude of the situation. In life there are ups and downs; therefore, you should learn how to stay positive even if you’re going through a hard time. There are many unpredictable hardships in life. Various reasons can cause challenges in life, such as financial problems. Most people will tend to use intoxicants to reduce the impact. Staying positive will help you create a sustainable way of approaching the problem. Being positive will improve your happiness level. Some benefits of being happy include, improved focus, better relationships, more confidence, and a healthier lifestyle.

Tips For Staying Positive During Difficult Times

1. Treat Yourself

During challenges, you should treat yourself accordingly. There are various ways of treating yourself, such as exercise, try your favorite hobby, quality sleep, etc. You should choose an item that will shift your mind. Treating yourself is a sign of self-care and shows that you appreciate who you’re and your deeds.

2. Build Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence is the ability to strategically react to stressful situations and bad experiences. Losing a loved one or inability to secure your dream job can cause stress, thus impacting your emotional health. Emotional resilience helps you to cope with hard situations in life. There are some tips for developing emotional resilience, such as:

– Enhance mental flexibility

– Concentrate on strategies for solving problems

– Being positive even if you fail

– Come up with a decision-making framework

3. Exercise Regularly

Based on scientific research, exercises are helpful for physical and mental health. Working out makes you feel better even if you’re going through a difficult situation. Exercises will release chemicals, such as dopamine and endorphins. These chemicals play a major part in enhancing your happiness and lower your stress levels. During a difficult time, concentrate on simple exercises, such as jogging, walking, running, and hiking.

4. Listening to Music

Music has a higher probability of changing how you’re feeling in the moment. Listening to your favorite music will improve your mental health and mood.

5. Enhance your Nutrition

Great nutrition will play a part in enhancing the way you feel. For example, your body requires sufficient energy in order to help you exercise effectively. In addition, nutritional foods will change your mindset and improve your mood. Also, eating a balanced diet prevents behavioral imbalances and mood swings.

6. Explore Nature

Nature walks are essential in reducing depression and anxiety. The habit of feeling happy while exploring nature can be termed ecotherapy. There are several ways you can explore nature, such as camping, hiking, visiting the seaside, and a local park.

7. Get Sufficient Sleep

Based on some studies, sufficient sleep can increase your positivity. Sleep will recharge your physical energy and process emotions. There are many benefits of adequate sleep, especially health-wise. Sleep patterns lower your risk of developing chronic health issues, such as diabetes and cardiovascular problems.

8. Adopt a Healthy Way of Taking Criticism

Criticisms can lower your self-esteem, thus impacting your functioning ability. You should learn how to take criticism and how to control your anger. Being positive reduces the feeling of negativity and pessimism. You should understand yourself and others in order to have a great perspective even after being criticized.

Importance of Staying Positive During Difficult Times

1. Combat Stress

If you’re going through some life hardship, you’ll have high-stress levels. Stress reduces the quality of your life. Staying positive will help you concentrate on a helpful project rather than recalling the situation. You’ll, therefore, become more productive in your field. A positive-minded person will distract the mind through engaging in fruitful acts.

2. Improved Life Longevity

During difficult times, your stress levels will rise abruptly. Therefore, you’ll have higher chances of developing various health issues. Health problems can lower your longevity and workability. Staying positive will reduce your stress levels and increase your happiness. You’ll lower the odds of developing chronic problems that can cause death or long-term disability.

3. Healthier Lifestyle

Staying positive means that you’ll be involved in healthier lifestyles. A healthier lifestyle improves both your physical and emotional health.

Conclusion

Staying positive in life will help you focus on your obligations. In the long run, you’ll become more successful in life because you aren’t ready to give up.

#Tips For Staying Positive #Tips

0 notes