The Benefits of Access to Nature for Well-Being

Mental health issues continue to represent a leading cause of disability, impairment, or death, introducing or exacerbating risk factors in people. The urban built environment has an undeniable impact on people’s mental health. From urbanist practices, architecture, and use, the built environment shapes the lived reality of people living in cities, for better or for worse. One way a person can regain agency and positively impact their mental health and well-being in an urban environment is by spending time outdoors in nature.

At Water and Stone, we encourage the integration of nature where possible in a person’s life. Our responsibility is to promote our clients’ well-being and mental health, and access to nature is one of the many tools available to people for this purpose.

Nature and Well-Being

Some theories exist which may explain the psychological closeness and connection that humans feel with nature. Each of the theories expanded on in this blog post suggests a different mechanism for this connection. These are:

- The Biophilia Hypothesis, which supposes that people have an innate tendency to place importance and focus on nature, and that there is an emotional connection associated with this.

- The Stress Reduction Theory focuses on the effects that greenery and nature may have on how a person expresses themselves. This theory suggests that contact with nature results in immediate effects on a person’s mood, leading to a reduction in stress.

- The Attention Restoration Theory suggests that contact with nature helps recharge a person’s limited cognitive resources. Thinking of a drained mental battery, nature helps recharge it.

- Finally, The Greenery Hypothesis suggests that there is an evolutionarily adapted connection between changes in the environment and a person’s mood and behaviour.

Tools for Your Well-Being

Research has shown that access to nature, be it within an urban setting or remote wilderness, provides multiple benefits at multiple levels of well-being. Here are some things to consider when you incorporate nature into your healing journey or daily life.

1. A little is much better than none

Access to nature does not start when you walk out the door. Even having views of nature can have a positive impact, as was the case for recovering surgical patients. If possible, consider spending more of your time near a window with a view of a natural setting.

2. Nature and mindfulness

Access to nature, in and of itself, is beneficial; however, incorporating mindfulness into your time outdoors can yield additional benefits. Taking the time to think about your senses, what you see, hear, smell, etc., can re-center you, helping to reduce stress in the body and symptoms of anxiety and depression.

3. Running is not required

Beyond the physical benefits of spending time outdoors, access to nature can also bring about social and cultural benefits. Spending time outdoors increases the opportunities you have to spend that time with others, socializing and building community. This does not necessarily mean it must take the shape of organized sports; even simply spending time together, like for a picnic or get-together, for example, can result in similar benefits. Spending a little time outdoors, around one hour per week, can significantly contribute to your well-being for the reasons listed above.

A Greener World

Research has shown that not everyone has access to green spaces and nature. Some factors, such as income and education, can limit access to these spaces for some people. Advocating for changes in your environment can bring green spaces to you, making it easier for you and others to reap the benefits for well-being, mental and physical health, community, and self-actualization.

At Water and Stone, we strongly advocate for the well-being of all individuals, including those who may not have equitable access to resources or opportunities, so that everyone has the opportunity to be their best self. At Water & Stone Psychotherapy, we’re here to support you through every step of your mental health journey. If you’re struggling, consider reaching out today.