Why Spending Time in Nature Can Support Mental Wellbeing

In recent years, a growing body of research has highlighted something many people instinctively feel: spending time in nature can support our mental wellbeing. From quiet parks to woodland walks, natural environments can offer moments of calm, reflection and connection.

A recent article in The Guardian described a London-based initiative where people experiencing mental health difficulties were encouraged to spend structured time outdoors as part of a programme linked to healthcare services. Participants reported improvements in mood, stress levels and overall wellbeing.

While nature is not a replacement for professional mental health care, evidence suggests that engaging with natural environments can be a valuable complement to therapy and other supports.

In this blog, we’ll explore what the research says about nature and mental health, why it may help, and some gentle ways to incorporate more time outdoors into your daily life.

The Growing Interest in “Green Social Prescribing”

Across the UK, there has been increasing interest in what is known as green social prescribing. This approach involves health professionals linking people with community activities that take place in nature, such as walking groups, gardening projects or conservation activities.

The NHS describes social prescribing as a way of connecting people with non-medical forms of support that can improve wellbeing and reduce loneliness.

Research evaluating green social prescribing programmes suggests they may help people feel:

• calmer

• more connected to others

• less anxious or depressed

• more satisfied with life

Several large UK research projects have found that access to nature-based activities can improve wellbeing and reduce anxiety for some participants.

Importantly, these programmes are usually offered alongside existing medical or psychological care, rather than replacing it.

Why Nature May Benefit Mental Wellbeing

There are several psychological and biological explanations for why time in nature may feel restorative.

1. Stress Reduction

Natural environments tend to be less overstimulating than urban spaces. The sounds of birds, wind or water can activate the body’s relaxation response and may reduce stress hormones.

Research suggests that natural sounds and scenery can help the brain shift into a more relaxed state, which may improve mood and emotional regulation.

2. Attention Restoration

Modern life often requires sustained concentration — from work screens to social media notifications. Nature appears to allow the brain’s attention systems to rest and reset.

Psychologists refer to this as attention restoration theory, which proposes that natural settings gently engage our attention without demanding intense focus.

3. Connection and Perspective

Spending time outdoors can also foster a sense of perspective. Being surrounded by trees, water or open sky can create space to reflect on thoughts and feelings.

Many people also experience a greater sense of connection — whether to the natural world, their community, or themselves.

4. Physical Movement and Sunlight

Nature-based activities often involve gentle movement, such as walking or gardening. Physical activity is well known to support mental health.

Sunlight exposure can also influence the body’s circadian rhythm and serotonin production, which are both linked to mood regulation.

What the Research Says

While research into nature and mental health is still developing, several consistent findings have emerged.

Studies reviewing nature-based interventions across multiple countries have found associations between these activities and improvements in mental wellbeing.

A systematic review of nature-based social prescribing concluded that such programmes can improve biopsychosocial wellbeing, meaning benefits may occur across psychological, social and physical dimensions.

There is also evidence suggesting that people living in areas with more accessible green space report lower levels of common mental health difficulties.

However, it is important to note that:

• outcomes vary between individuals

• the quality of green spaces matters

• nature exposure alone is not a complete mental health intervention

Researchers continue to explore how, why and for whom nature-based approaches are most helpful.

Nature as a Complement to Counselling

In counselling and psychotherapy, the focus is often on understanding emotions, experiences and patterns of behaviour within a safe and supportive relationship.

Spending time in nature may complement this process in several ways:

Creating space for reflectionA walk in nature can allow thoughts and emotions to settle, making it easier to process experiences discussed in therapy.

Supporting emotional regulationCalming environments may help people regulate difficult feelings such as anxiety or overwhelm.

Encouraging self-care routinesSimple outdoor practices can become part of a sustainable wellbeing routine between sessions.

Some therapists also offer outdoor or “walk and talk” therapy, although this is not suitable for everyone and should always be carefully discussed with a qualified practitioner.

Simple Ways to Bring Nature into Everyday Life

You don’t need access to forests or countryside to experience the benefits of nature.

Research suggests even small interactions with natural environments can make a difference.

Here are a few gentle ways to incorporate nature into daily life:

Spend Time in Local Green Spaces

A short visit to a local park or garden can provide a pause from daily stress.

Notice Natural Details

Pay attention to small details such as:

• the texture of leaves

• birdsong

• sunlight through trees

Mindfully noticing these elements can encourage relaxation.

Walk Regularly

Even a 10–20 minute walk outdoors can help shift mood and energy.

Bring Nature Indoors

Houseplants, natural light and views of greenery may also support wellbeing when outdoor access is limited.

Try Creative Outdoor Activities

Activities like photography, sketching or journaling outdoors can deepen your sense of connection with the environment.

A Gentle Reminder

While spending time in nature can support wellbeing, it is not a substitute for professional help when someone is struggling with significant mental health difficulties.

If you are experiencing persistent distress, speaking with a qualified counsellor, GP or mental health professional can provide valuable support.

Nature can be one helpful element within a wider approach to mental wellbeing — alongside therapy, social support, and self-care.

Final Thoughts

Human beings evolved in close connection with the natural world, yet many of us now spend most of our time indoors. Reconnecting with nature — even in small ways — may help restore a sense of balance.

Research into nature-based wellbeing is continuing to grow, and initiatives such as green social prescribing reflect a broader recognition that mental health is influenced not only by what happens inside our minds, but also by the environments we live in.

For many people, a simple step outside can offer a moment of calm, clarity and perspective.

Here When You’re Ready

Taking the first step can feel difficult, but support is here when you need it. If you’d like to talk, you’re welcome to get in touch or book an initial session.

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