Synthesis on the benefits of nature exposure to physical health and well-being
Paper Details
Synthesis on the benefits of nature exposure to physical health and well-being
Abstract
Biodiversity can be explored in a number of emerging movements and schools of thought that are changing how we value and care for nature. Nature exposure has been linked to a plethora of health benefits, but the mechanism for this effect is not well understood. This study generally presents synthesis of research papers revealing the benefits of nature exposure to human well-being. Thirteen research articles were systematically analysed to unleash the theoretical explanations and underpinnings of the benefits of nature to physical health. Evidences found that intentional, indirect, and incidental interaction with nature provides psychological, cognitive, physiological, and social benefits. Overall, evidence suggests that connecting with nature is one path to establish good health and well-being. The advantages of contact with nature as a potential wellbeing intervention are discussed, and examples of how this research is being applied to reconnect individuals to nature and improve wellbeing are given. Finally, this study provides key directions for future research to design landscapes and programs that promote high quality interactions between people and nature in a rapidly changing world.
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