Abstract:

This article was written in South Africa, where there are still tracts of wilderness in which people are able to spend a number of days away from the pressures of modern existence. The narrative draws from personal experiences in the wilderness, and explores aspects of the “call” of the wilderness for some, and links between wilderness experiences and effective psychotherapy. The cognitive freedom possible in the wilderness is contrasted with the ever-tightening influence of technology and “progress” on human well-being, providing a recurring theme. Shared metaphors, the nature of the journey and encounters with the self are explored in the contexts of the wilderness and therapy, and draw from a form of spiritual experience. Some of the emergent ideas are intended to be thought provoking, engaging the reader in questions about the promotion of well-being.

Author: Jacqueline Akhurst