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Journey for Hope

The Science

Nature-based therapy involves incorporating nature into therapeutic practices for improved mental health. Learn more about the power of nature to promote resilience and heal trauma. 

FAQ

  • What does a Journey look like?
    A seven-day journey with 20-40 participants who have shared the same traumatic experience. It’s a group and a personal process from beginning to end, a transformational journey that will enable the participants to reconnect with their inner resources and find resilience. This is a 200 + hour tour of physical, emotional and practical therapy.
  • The professional team of the journey:
    Each journey has a team of 6-8 professionals that includes: a psychotherapist (one or more), doctor, social leader, guide and admins. Our aim is 1 professional for 2-3 participants.
  • The principal advantages of the resilience journeys:
    * Discovering inner strengths and developing coping mechanisms. * Building supportive relationships with others who share similar experiences. * Harnessing the healing power of nature. * Creating a safe and supportive space for healing from traumatic experiences.
  • Why are you different from other activists in this space?
    This is not just another trip, retreat or vacation. Journeys for Hope is the only provider that offers a systematic method, led by the best and most experienced professionals in the field as thousands of participants who have already taken Journeys can testify. The Journey is a boost of resilience. The Journey helps its participants smile again and brings them back to life.
  • What is the difference between going to a psychotherapist and the journey?
    Many of the war victims will eventually receive mental health care. Some will need long-term care. Our resilience journeys don't replace therapy. We invite our participants to incorporate psychotherapy into their rehabilitation process. The journey is a "resilience boost" that speeds up the healing process and helps its participants gradually return to life. Sometimes the Journey is the first time in which participants smile or even laugh again. They remember what they can do and how much power they have. They do this in a supportive environment that helps them rise again.
  • What’s the cost breakdown?
    The journeys take place in nature—in safe, bucolic environments such as Africa, Lapland, Serbia, Montenegro, Costa Rica and more. The cost breakdowns down to: flights, hotels, SUVs, admissions, food and drink, shirts, logistics and more. Each Journey has a team of 6-8 professionals, which includes: a psychotherapist (one or more), doctor, social leader, guide and admins. Some are volunteers and some paid. Our aim is to provide 1 professional for 2- 3 travelers.
  • How does therapy in nature differ from traditional, indoor therapy?
    Therapy in nature differs from traditional indoor therapy in its focus on outdoor environments. Scientific studies show benefits such as improved mood, motivation, concentration, creativity, and even potential longevity. Research on horticulture therapy also shows improved physical health, including reduced heart rate and blood pressure. The informal and less intense nature of outdoors therapy, which includes activities like walking, makes it less intimidating for participants to discuss their feelings. The act of walking itself can be meditative, and the side-by-side interaction can make opening up easier for those who find face-to-face conversations daunting. Outdoor therapy fosters organic social interactions, creating a sense of connection with the wider world. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of humans with the ecosystems around them, promoting a holistic approach to well-being. Moreover, the literal act of standing upright and moving forward symbolizes a positive and primal step toward self-discovery and fulfillment. Recognizing the intricate link between the body and mind, outdoor therapy allows for physical movement to contribute to mental progress, offering a unique sense of freedom and control, especially in challenging or stagnant situations.

 Research & Studies

Long-term group therapy, using the healing power of nature, for veterans diagnosed with chronic trauma

A healing adventure, in pastoral setting, for combat-related Post-traumatic Chronic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Becoming human again': Exploring connections between nature and recovery from stress and post-traumatic distress

The effect of time outdoors on veterans receiving treatment for PTSD

Mental health benefits of nature-based recreation: a systematic review

Building resilience through an increased connection with nature.

The phased model of adventure therapy: trauma-focussed, low arousal, & positive behavioural support

Your donation will help survivors of war

and terrorism pick up the pieces of their shattered lives. 

Journey for Hope
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