OOJO is short for opmærksomhed og jordforbindelse (attention and grounding); attention to our thoughts, feelings and actions and a strong connection to our foundation. Through individual and group sessions based in nature therapy, we create space for compassionate relationships with the inner and outer landscape.
OOJO is founded in nature therapy; a method in which nature assists the therapeutic process. Nature supports us in illuminating and understanding what rises to the surface. In nature therapy, the topics can be as diverse as in other therapeutic process.
The word nature points to our inner nature and the outer nature simultaneously. Our thoughts, feelings and bodily experiences interact with the landscape and the natural phenomena we come in contact with. This way we can move through the conversation-based, the emotional and the bodily plane and let the process be influenced by sensory stimuli as well as nature’s cycle and symbols.
One of the benefits from this method is that we may experience getting deeper into the process, as the therapy relates to language, emotions and the body, and at the same time enables the surrounding natural space to influence and reflect our process.
For more than a decade, I have connected people with that nature that surrounds us and this nature we ourselves are an expression of. OOJO is an attempt to pass on what I have experienced through attention and grounding.
Through teaching, social and therapeutic work, nature and its diverse expressions have assisted me in increasing self-awareness and expanding the space of opportunity in children, young people and adults. Individually and in groups. In my work with nature therapy, I am concerned with incorporating the edible nature and the healing properties of the breath.
I work therapeutically in at Kalvebod Fælled and Amager Fælled (Copenhagen) sand in the forests near Allindelille Fredskov (Ringsted), but I am also welcoming other suitable nature areas.
In nature therapy, the topics can be as diverse as in other therapeutic processes. What actually happens during a session in nature differs from time to time, and is always based on the individual client or group. Different issues lead to different needs, which lead to different sessions.
A client burdened by a prolonged stress load might need one approach, while a client who is challenged by personal relationships might need another approach. A group, for example a collegial community, may need a third type of approach, for example to reach a deeper insight into and understanding of the group's dynamics and values.
Common to all sessions is that we start with a conversation, guiding us to a variety of exercises embedded in nature. The exercises can focus on the body and the senses or on using natural materials as a focal point. It can also be breath work or silent walking showing itself to be the most beneficial, in relation to what is challenging. The conversation continues when necessary.
In this way we find our way in and out of the issues that take up space and with the assistance of nature we find appropriate ways to relate to what is difficult in life.
A non-binding and clarifying conversation of 15-20 minutes is the first step. Subsequent sessions in nature can last from 2 hours to 24 hours. The hourly rate is DKK 600 and is gradually reduced for sessions of 3 hours or more. Group session rates vary depending on circumstances.