ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the cultural and historical examples that demonstrate nature's therapeutic effects and then reviews the contemporary theories that explain why and how nature can heal. The Kaplanesque school initially explored the psychological benefits of a wilderness experience, then further established the attention-restoration theory to explain nature's restorative effects on mental fatigue. In the history of human development, nature has traditionally been viewed as a “healer.” Medical geographers tried to decipher therapeutic landscapes and historic places that have enduring reputations for healing and explored the unique aspects comprising the healing sense of places. Water has traditionally been seen as being endowed with healing qualities. In Islamic culture, water has long been believed to be cooling, purifying, and solidifying the spiritual harmony of one's primordial status; indeed, the flowing rills of water and fountains are the most featured elements in Islamic gardens.
