In this article I will speak about the wonderful healing Potential of special places. By special places, I mean those places in nature or the natural world that are close to our hearts, and healing to our mind, body and spirit. If you dont yet have your own special place in nature, I would recommend that you make this a goal for the near future.

I have a number of special places, and have used them for the healing of dis-ease, for inspiration, and the gaining of new insight into a problem, or to have a respite from the activities of my normal life. They are a refuge of safety, or places where we are able to re-orient ourselves, to think about and to determine goals for ourselves, or simply quiet sanctuaries for meditation.

In our special places we are able to engage the landscape in dialogue; I mean, to get to know an area quite well. We are able to see how its mood changes with the weather, the seasons or the time of day. Over time, we also become acquainted with the animals and birds that frequent our special place, and may even get to know their behaviour patterns, and flight paths. For me, it takes on the aura of an old friend a place where I can take my problems, a place which gives both support and intimacy.

It is not my place to tell anyone how they should treat their dis-ease or to recommend a treatment, nor do I advocate nature therapy (ecopsychology) practices as a substitute for professional medical services. However, there are times when we can empower ourselves to remedy situations on our own, or with the help of friends, or in conjunction with professional services. And, too, having special places is a good means of illness prevention. It is an excellent process, and a free form of self-help, encouraging us to play a greater role in maintaining our health and wellness.

Let me conclude this article, with a suggestion: go off into the natural world and find an area in which you feel relaxed and comfortable. A place where you feel safe, and are able to contemplate life in peace. Make this place a refuge in the weeks and months, ahead. Visit your special place at least once or twice, weekly. While there, examine the area in detail noting the bird, animal, and insect life you discover. Begin a journal of your experiences while in this natural landscape. Have a brief period of meditation during each visit. As the weeks and months pass, you will come to realize that your special place has assumed an important role in your life, and in helping to define the kind of life you live. You will also notice what a wonderful role it plays in maintaining your well-being. Having a special place in nature will help to bring you a more joyous life.