This collection of books and a starter gear kit explores the intersection of human well-being and the natural world, inspired by Mark Mathieson's journey into ecopsychology. These resources are for anyone interested in deepening their connection with nature for personal and planetary health. They collectively offer theoretical foundations, practical applications, and scientific insights into the benefits of integrating nature into our lives.
Curated by The Shelf Curator · Updated June 2026
Built for educators and mental health practitioners who need a baseline framework for implementing nature-based interventions. Not for those seeking clinical diagnostic manuals — this shop focuses on the foundational philosophy and practical application of ecopsychology.
Curator's pick: Ecopsychology: Restoring the Earth, Healing the Mind
This is the most cohesive entry point because it balances theoretical depth with clinical relevance, making it more functional for practitioners than the broader philosophical texts. While 'The Voice of the Earth' is foundational, it's often too dense for those trying to apply these concepts in a session next week.
⚠ Worth knowing: The 'Wilderness Therapy Starter Gear Kit' is designed for day-long residential or local park interventions only. If you are conducting multi-day backcountry wilderness therapy, you will need to upgrade to professional-grade navigation and thermal gear not included in this basic entry kit.
Deep Ecology Philosophy and EthicsEvidence-Based Horticultural Therapy ToolsOutdoor Education and Bushcraft for Youth Groups
Authored by Mark Mathieson, this collection of books and a starter gear kit delves into ecopsychology, a field bridging human well-being and the natural world. It draws from his experience and interest in how connecting with nature can heal and uplift.
This shop is ideal for students, practitioners, parents, and anyone curious about the profound impact of nature on mental and emotional health. It offers both theoretical insights and practical tools for integrating nature into daily life or professional practice.
Starting with a couple of foundational books like "The Voice of the Earth" and "The Nature Fix" can cost between $29-$47. A full build, including all books and the Wilderness Therapy Starter Gear Kit, ranges from $129-$271, offering a comprehensive dive into ecopsychology.
Full build
$129–$271
Starter
$29–$47
Foundational books only
Best forEcopsychology StudentsNature EnthusiastsTherapeutic ProfessionalsMindfulness PractitionersParents & Educators
The Voice of the Earth: An Exploration of Ecopsychology
This book introduces the core concepts of ecopsychology, exploring the deep interconnectedness between human consciousness and the natural world. It is for readers seeking to understand the philosophical and psychological underpinnings of environmental health. It addresses the alienation from nature and its impact on personal well-being.
Foundational ecopsychology text
Explores human-nature connection
Theoretical framework
Softcover or hardcover edition
Academic and general audience
In this shop: This foundational text aligns with the ecopsychology vibe by offering a comprehensive understanding of humanity's relationship with the Earth.
This anthology compiles key essays that define and advance the field of ecopsychology, offering diverse perspectives on its principles and practices. It is suited for students, practitioners, and researchers looking for a broad overview of the discipline. It provides a rich resource for understanding how nature impacts mental and emotional health.
Collection of academic essays
Defines ecopsychology principles
Diverse author perspectives
Reference for mental health professionals
Paperback or ebook format
In this shop: As an essential anthology, this book perfectly encapsulates the academic and practical aspects of the ecopsychology vibe.
This book investigates the phenomenon of 'nature-deficit disorder' in children and its implications for development and well-being. It is for parents, educators, and anyone concerned about the impact of reduced outdoor time on youth. It highlights the importance of nature exposure for healthy cognitive and emotional growth.
Examines nature-deficit disorder
Focus on child development
Advocates for outdoor play
Social commentary on modern life
Available in paperback or audio
In this shop: This book resonates with the ecopsychology vibe by addressing the psychological impact of disconnection from nature, particularly in younger generations.
This book synthesizes scientific research to demonstrate how exposure to nature positively affects the human brain and mental state. It is for science-minded readers, health professionals, and individuals curious about the biological benefits of nature. It explains the mechanisms by which nature improves happiness, health, and creativity.
Scientific research focus
Explores brain chemistry impacts
Benefits for mental health
Practical nature connection tips
Paperback or digital format
In this shop: By providing a scientific basis for nature's benefits, this book strongly supports the evidence-based aspect of the ecopsychology vibe.
This kit provides essential tools for professionals or enthusiasts conducting outdoor therapy sessions or immersive nature experiences. It is for ecopsychology practitioners, guides, or individuals preparing for extended time in natural settings. It equips users with practical items needed for safety and structured activity outdoors.
Durable backpack included
First-aid components
Navigation tools
Weather-resistant items
Compact and portable
In this shop: This gear kit embodies the practical, hands-on application aspect of the ecopsychology vibe for engaging directly with nature.
This guide offers pathways for individuals and groups to address ecological despair and foster social transformation through reconnecting with life. It is intended for mental health professionals, activists, and community leaders working on environmental issues. It provides frameworks for resilience and collective action in the face of environmental challenges.
Guide to environmental activism
Focus on social healing
Fosters community connections
Practical exercises for groups
Softcover edition
In this shop: This book reflects the action-oriented and community-focused elements within the ecopsychology vibe, promoting engagement and change.
This collection provides a holistic understanding of ecopsychology, blending philosophical depth with scientific evidence and practical applications.
The diverse range of topics ensures that both beginners and experienced practitioners can find valuable resources for personal growth and professional development.
By combining theoretical knowledge with a practical gear kit, this bundle equips users to transition from learning about nature's benefits to actively experiencing them.
What to know
The comprehensive nature of this bundle means a significant investment in time to fully absorb and apply all the information and practices presented.
While it covers many aspects of ecopsychology, individual preferences for specific outdoor activities or therapeutic modalities may require additional, specialized resources.
How to use this together
1
Start with Foundational Theory
Begin by reading "The Voice of the Earth" to grasp the core concepts of ecopsychology and then delve into "Ecopsychology: Restoring the Earth, Healing the Mind" for diverse perspectives. This establishes a strong theoretical base before exploring specific applications or scientific data.
2
Explore Specific Applications
Next, read "Last Child in the Woods" if you're interested in youth development, or "The Nature Fix" for scientific insights into nature's health benefits. "Coming Back to Life" provides frameworks for environmental action, offering pathways to address ecological despair.
3
Equip for Outdoor Engagement
Once you have a solid understanding of the principles, utilize the Wilderness Therapy Starter Gear Kit to facilitate your own outdoor experiences or therapeutic sessions. This kit helps bridge the theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on engagement with nature.
