All articles tagged with #nature therapy
Catherine, Princess of Wales, has launched a new initiative through the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood to explore how nature supports children's social and emotional development. The project, which aims to make nature more accessible for families across the UK, is part of her broader campaign to improve early years education and counter screen time.
Research indicates that brief contact with soil, moss, and plants significantly increases the diversity of microbes on human skin. This microbial diversity appears to crowd out harmful pathogens and may positively influence immune system regulation, potentially reducing the risk of immune-related disorders.
King’s College Hospital in London opened the UK’s first rooftop garden for its 60-bed Critical Care Unit, allowing ICU patients to spend hours outdoors while still connected to life-support via weatherproof cabinets; the six-bed rooftop setup aims to advance research on how nature, light, and fresh air affect recovery, stress, and well-being for patients, families, and staff, with designers Nigel Dunnett and Sarah Price leading the landscaping.
Urban residents in Raleigh, North Carolina are turning to guided “forest bathing” sessions at the J.C. Raulston Arboretum to decompress from the nonstop news cycle, using nature and mindful activities to reduce stress.
A Washington Post Post Reports episode explains why spending time outdoors—even in winter—boosts mood, memory, and concentration, highlighting science-backed nature-therapy concepts and practical exercises like the Noticing Nature Intervention, which can increase optimism in about 14 days.
Dr. David Furman, a Stanford longevity scientist, reversed his biological age by a decade through a radical lifestyle change involving moving to a forest cabin, embracing natural routines, organic diets, and digital detox, supported by scientific research on the health benefits of nature.
The '20-5-3 rule,' developed by neuroscientist Rachel Hopman, suggests spending 20 minutes in nature three times a week, five hours monthly in semiwild spaces, and three days annually in wild landscapes to boost mental and physical well-being. This approach, supported by research, helps lower stress, enhance relaxation, and improve mental health by disconnecting from technology and immersing in natural environments.
Forest bathing, a practice rooted in Japan known as shinrin-yoku, involves immersing oneself in nature to reduce stress and improve mental and physical health. Studies show that spending time in nature can lower anxiety, blood pressure, and stress hormones, while enhancing mood and immune function. Dr. Leana Wen suggests that even a short walk in a park can be beneficial, and emphasizes the importance of mindfulness during these activities. She also warns against using substances like alcohol and drugs for stress relief, recommending professional help if needed.
Winter camping is on the rise as a way to combat seasonal affective disorder and mental stress, with experts highlighting the mental health benefits of spending time in nature during the colder months. The outdoors can regulate brain and body chemistry, induce "soft fascination" that restores focus, and provide a sense of perspective and connection to something greater. Tips for safe winter camping include planning ahead, checking the weather, and ensuring proper gear such as a four-season tent, a suitable sleep system, and essential light and heat sources.
High-functioning depression, often experienced by successful individuals, can be managed in the workplace through seeking professional help, such as therapy or support groups, to address symptoms and suicidal ideation. Connecting with nature and spending time outdoors has been shown to minimize depression symptoms. Socializing and discussing mental health with friends and loved ones can help combat isolation and provide support for those struggling with high-functioning depression.
According to Daaji, the president of the Shri Ram Chandra Mission and master guru for Heartfulness meditation, spending time with trees can help dissolve anger and frustration. He explains that trees have a complementary relationship with humans, where they can absorb negative energy and provide positive energy in return. Daaji suggests sleeping under a tree or meditating under a tree trunk that is no wider than your back. Scientific research on forest bathing and spending time in nature supports the idea that nature can improve mood, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being.