Nature-Based Activities Help Reduce Anxiety in Adults

Those who suffer from anxiety may benefit from nature-based interventions

A new study finds that people with pre-existing mental health conditions could experience improved mental health through engaging in outdoor nature-based activities. Melinda Nagy/Shutterstock

For those who suffer from anxiety, everyday tasks can be challenging. But a new study has found that in people with preexisting mental health conditions, including outdoor nature-based activities could help to improve mental health.

Researchers from the University of York were able to show through their study that taking part in outdoor nature-based activities could lead to less anxiety, improved mood, and more positive emotions.

For the study, researchers screened 14,321 nature-based intervention (NBI) records and analyzed 50 studies. They concluded that activities lasting longer than 20 to 90 minutes and sustained over 8 to 12 weeks have the most favorable outcomes for improving mood and reducing anxiety.

Among the activities that were most associated with mental health benefits were gardening and outdoor exercise. Engaging in conversation also had a positive effect and made people feel better.

‘Forest bathing’ was also highlighted as an outdoor nature-based activity that had an impact on mental wellness. This relatively new idea involves people going into a forest to take in the atmosphere.

Researchers suggest that those who suffer from anxiety may benefit from NBIs that support people and help them engage with nature in a structured way to improve mental health.

While it has long been known that being in nature is good for health and well-being, this study reinforces the growing evidence that participating in outdoor activities is associated with large gains in mental health. Doing activities individually is effective, but doing them in a group can lead to more significant gains in mental health.

This study found less evidence for improvement in physical health from outdoor activities. They suggest that more appropriate ways to measure the impact on physical health are needed.

A Need for More Solutions

This study makes a case for a substantial need for sustained investment in the community and place-based solutions such as nature-based interventions. This may play an important role in addressing a post-pandemic surge in demand for mental health support.

“One of the key ideas that might explain why nature-based activities are good for us is that they help to connect us with nature in meaningful ways that go beyond passively viewing nature,” lead author Dr. Peter Coventry said.

This critical research is just the beginning of a surge in studies looking into mental health. With the current pandemic unfolding around the world, many are feeling the effects and will be looking for treatments for depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.

Sarah Cownley earned a diploma in nutritional therapy from Health Sciences Academy in London, and she enjoys helping others by teaching healthy lifestyle changes through her personal consultations and with her regular contributions to the Doctors Health Press. This article was originally published on Bel Marra Health.