Integral ecopsychological investigation of bonsai principles, meaning and healing

Art therapy is very popular amongst therapists, and Bonsai art adds another dimension to the intervention stratagem. One aspect of an intervention strategy is to reduce the burden of mental illness and related conditions. Bonsai as an intervention combines meditation, spirituality, responsibility and the ability to express oneself through this timeless art. An international study was conducted of the habits, health and spirituality of bonsai practitioners. Participants completed the Spirituality Scale, Patient Health Questionnaire and the Quality of Life Scales, as well as a questionnaire about their interest in Bonsai. Results indicated that although the participants were not necessarily healthier than the general population, they experienced peace by being actively involved in Bonsai. Bonsai is proposed as a new expanded category of supportive therapeutic mechanism, along with an elaboration of expressive therapeutic mechanisms such as when working in groups,such as hospitals,old age homes and prisons.

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

University of Zululand

Year dc:date.issued

2013

Author dc:creator

• Hermann, Caroll

Advisors dc:contributor.advisor

• Thwala, J.D
• Edwards, S

• intervention --silence --spirituality --Bonsai --well-being --psychotherapy

Licence

• https://devspace.unizulu.ac.za/bitstreams/312ceded-bf8e-436e-90fc-53b344a63f70/download