Why Nature and Wellbeing?

 

There is a growing evidence base supporting the relationship between nature, health and wellbeing, alongside increasing recognition of nature-based approaches within health and social care.

For health and wellbeing professionals, Green Social Prescribing provides an established way of connecting people with nature-based activities as part of personalised, community-based support. NHS England recognises the potential of nature-based activities to support mental and physical health, wellbeing and social connection.

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For people accessing health and social care services, connecting with nature can provide opportunities to:

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• Relaxation and restoration — creating space to slow down and take a break from everyday pressures

• Social connection — meeting others and reducing opportunities for loneliness and social isolation

• Mental wellbeing — supporting opportunities to manage stress and promote emotional wellbeing

• Sensory awareness — noticing sights, sounds, textures, smells and movement

• Physical activity — encouraging gentle movement and time outdoors

• Connection with nature — developing a relationship with local green spaces and the natural environment

• Meaningful activity — providing opportunities to develop positive routines and spend time doing something enjoyable and purposeful
   

Nature-based activities can offer another pathway for helping people connect with their local environment, community and meaningful activities.

They can sit alongside existing health, social care and wellbeing support; they do not replace clinical interventions.

It doesn't have to involve a long walk or anything adventurous.

Sometimes simply being outside, noticing what is around us and sharing the experience with others can be a meaningful starting point for wellbeing.

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Evidence & Further Reading

The following organisations provide further information and evidence relating to nature, health and wellbeing:

 

NHS England – Green Social Prescribing
Information about nature-based activities, health and wellbeing, and their role within personalised care and social prescribing.

Natural England – Nature, Health and Wellbeing
Evidence and information exploring the relationship between natural environments and physical and mental health.

Natural England – Healthy Outdoors
Current work looking at the evidence for nature-based health interventions and how their health outcomes can be evaluated.

 

The evidence base around nature-based health and wellbeing continues to develop, including research into which approaches work best for different people and circumstances.