'We've always done it. Country is our counselling office': Masculinity, Nature-Based Therapy, and the Strengths of Aboriginal Men

There is a dearth of studies exploring the effects of on-Country health and wellbeing programs for Aboriginal men, despite the natural world being a vital component of Aboriginal culture and identity. Using Indigenous standpoint theory, this qualitative study draws on a sample of 11 Aboriginal men in Tasmania to understand their experiences of participating in an on-Country men’s health and wellbeing program. The study found that there are four key benefits. Firstly, on-Country programs can provide holistic improvements to participant health and wellbeing. Secondly, on-Country programs assist Aboriginal men to spend time on Country and practice Aboriginal culture. Thirdly, nCountry programs contribute to the establishment, enhancement, and maintenance of healthy social connections. Finally, nature-based therapy provides space for Aboriginal men to freely express components of their masculinity without marginalisation from settler-colonial society. This study demonstrates the need for Aboriginal men to have place and space’: place on Country, and safe spaces in which to share culture and worldviews and to express and value their masculinity.