What are the benefits of getting out in nature?
Studies have shown that spending time in nature is linked to improvements in both physical and mental health, for example:
- reduced blood pressure, reduced stress levels and associated symptoms, lower levels of cardiovascular and respiratory problems, and reduced risk of diabetes, obesity, and COVID-19
- increased wellbeing, including subjective wellbeing, reduced social isolation, happiness, and resilience wellbeing
- a decrease in PTSD symptoms and ADHD - when offered alongside therapeutic and mindfulness activities
Social prescribing interventions based on nature can have a positive effect on happiness and well-being.
According to the , by decreasing social isolation and fostering a connection to nature, these interventions can make a significant impact. This is especially true for individuals at risk of health inequalities.
There is a strong and growing evidence that nature based social prescribing plays and important role in improving mental and physical health and reducing loneliness - NHS England
Page last updated: 2 August 2024