INDIGENOUS WOMEN SURVIVORS OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE REFLECT ON THE POWER OF NATURE ENGAGEMENT

Abstract

Being in nature positively impacts overall health and psychological well-being. This study explored the narratives of three Indigenous female survivors of childhood sexual abuse (CSA), and their experiences of healing while experiencing nature. The women were asked to reflect on their connections and experiences while in nature, and how they utilized nature as healing. Each participant engaged in an open-ended narrative interview while incorporating self-selected naturistic photographs. The interviews and photos aided in the production of a composite narrative which encompassed three general themes of how these women experienced healing while in nature: (1) Exploring Strength, (2) Finding Comfort in Mindfulness and, (3) Reconnecting to Spirituality. The results of this research suggest that these Indigenous women, who experienced CSA, discovered healing in nature. The lived experience gathered in this study provides valuable information for survivors of CSA about how embracing nature can be healing in the aftermath of trauma. Implications for practice and further research were identified.