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
- reduced risk of diabetes, obesity and COVID-19
- increased wellbeing, including reduced social isolation, greater happiness and improved resilience
- a decrease in PTSD symptoms and ADHD symptoms when combined with therapeutic or mindfulness activities
Social prescribing interventions based on nature can have a positive effect on happiness and wellbeing.
According to the National Academy for Social Prescribing, by decreasing social isolation and building a connection to nature, these interventions can make a significant difference. 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: 16 January 2026
