Life is an ongoing journey of striving for wellness. While some people may seek professional support to heal from substance use disorder (SUD) or a mental health disorder, others merely strive for greater peace and well-being in their lives. It can be immensely valuable to recognise that one of the most profound healing resources available is located right outside one’s front door. No matter where an individual finds themself on their journey to growth, healing, or recovery, learning to reap the incredible healing benefits of nature can be paramount.
Unfortunately, many people push nature to the wayside as they attempt to keep up with the status quo of social media and digital feeds. However, nature is well-researched for providing a wide range of physical and mental health benefits, simply from being exposed to green spaces or learning to mindfully connect with one’s environment. Exposure to fresh air can enhance both physical and mental well-being, improving the immune system, reducing stress, and lowering the risk of respiratory issues due to better air circulation. Thus, by learning about the benefits of nature, especially for mental health and addiction recovery, a person can feel empowered to turn to nature to satisfy their ever-changing wellness needs.
For individuals seeking treatment and recovery from addiction, the Perry Clayman Project (PCP) by Rehab Today is here to help. We offer several private alcohol and drug rehabilitation clinics across the UK, working to establish sobriety and lasting wellness for all individuals affected by substance abuse. Furthermore, we recognise the healing benefits of nature, which is why we encourage our clients to get outdoors over the course of their treatment and recovery journey. We can offer the professional guidance and support that a loved one may need to effectively recover from addiction.
Why Is Nature Valuable for Our Well-Being?
As one can see, incorporating nature into daily life can provide a plethora of benefits for well-being. Still, it is common for individuals to be sceptical about how nature provides such benefits. For example, how does simply being in nature slow down our heart rate? Well, according to another article in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, one theory lies in our evolutionary psychology.
The article explains that since humans are multisensory beings, “[I]t seems likely that many benefits [of nature] are delivered through the non-visual senses and these are potentially avenues through which a physiological mechanism could occur.” Further, “Natural sounds and smells underpin experiences of nature for many people, and this may well be rooted in evolutionary psychology.” In other words, nature brings us back to our senses: our roots.
A study has shown that individuals who spend at least 120 minutes in nature per week are significantly more likely to report good health compared to those who do not participate in any nature-related activities, indicating a strong connection between nature exposure and overall well-being.
When we are in nature, we remove ourselves from the hustle and bustle of daily life. We allow our senses to tune into our surroundings by focusing on the whistle of birds, the sound of a nearby river, or the gentle brisk of wind on our skin. As we become more aware of our surroundings, we also become more aware of our thoughts and feelings, thus encouraging intentional mindfulness and self-awareness.
Furthermore, by simply being in nature, our surroundings and sensory experiences can encourage us to actively engage with our environment. For example, we may feel compelled to start a garden by growing food or flowers. In turn, we learn to prioritise the natural nourishment of our bodies. We may also engage with our environment by exercising or being around animals, which can also promote many positive health effects.
The Science Behind Nature’s Healing Effects
Research has shown that spending time in nature has a profound impact on our mental and physical health. The science behind nature’s healing effects is complex, but it can be attributed to several key factors. One of the primary reasons nature has a positive impact on our health is due to the exposure to natural light. Natural light exposure has been shown to regulate our circadian rhythms, which can help improve our sleep patterns, reduce stress, and boost our mood.
Another factor is the exposure to phytoncides, which are organic compounds emitted by plants. Phytoncides have been shown to have a positive impact on our immune system, reducing inflammation and improving our overall health. Additionally, spending time in nature has been shown to reduce cortisol levels, blood pressure, and heart rate, all of which are indicators of stress.
The natural environment also has a profound impact on our mental health. Being in nature has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve our mood, and even reduce the risk of developing mental health disorders. The exact mechanisms behind these effects are not fully understood, but it is thought that the combination of natural light, phytoncides, and the calming effects of nature all play a role.
Physical Benefits of Nature
Nature provides benefits in all areas of health, and most of these benefits overlap. However, by identifying specific benefits of nature in each aspect of health, a person can recognise how such benefits intertwine. Exposure to nature positively influences various aspects of human health, including physical, mental, and emotional well-being. A review on nature exposure and health by the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health begins highlighting some of the following physical health benefits of nature.
Facilitates Stress Reduction
Arguably one of the most valuable benefits of spending time outdoors on physical health is stress reduction. As stated in the article, “[M]easures of heart rate, blood pressure, and perceived stress provide the most convincing evidence that exposure to nature or outdoor environments may reduce the negative effects of stress.” When we find ourselves in natural environments, our heart rate, blood pressure, and even muscle tension reduce.
Studies also show that cortisol, the body’s stress hormone, also reduces when a person is exposed to green spaces. Cortisol surges when we are in danger. However, it also tends to linger as a result of trauma and other prolonged, stressful situations. Learning how to reduce and regulate cortisol levels is necessary, as high cortisol can weaken our immune system and make us more vulnerable to developing mental health disorders. Therefore, nature becomes an invaluable tool for managing and navigating stress.
Improves Sleep Quality and Duration
While it may be difficult to believe, nature can also produce lasting benefits for sleep health and hygiene. According to the aforementioned article, “Exposure to green space may influence sleep duration and quality.” One of the ways nature can do this is by providing “white” noise, or a sound buffer for noise that would otherwise disrupt sleep. As mentioned previously, nature can also play a role in stress reduction during the day, which can inform deeper sleep throughout the night.
Proper sleep hygiene is a necessary, yet often undermined, element of wellness. It is as essential as food and water is to our survival. According to the National Insitute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), “Research shows that a chronic lack of sleep, or getting poor quality sleep, increases the risk of disorders including high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, depression, and obesity.” By incorporating nature into our daily routine, we can sleep deeper and longer, thus improving our physical health.
Fosters Engagement in Physical Activity
Nature is also beneficial for physical wellness in that it often fosters engagement in physical activity. When we feel encouraged to be out in nature, we may consider engaging in various physical activities such as walking, hiking, and participating in other outdoor activities. Moreover, recreational activities, including horseback riding, fishing, cycling, and more, offer the opportunity for us to connect with nature on deeper levels, admiring the beauty that surrounds us each day.
In contrast, when we exercise indoors, we will still reap the health benefits of physical activity, but we will not reap the benefits that surface from being in a natural environment, such as natural stress reduction. To fully experience the physical health benefits of nature, consider exercising in outdoor environments.
Mental Health Benefits of Nature
As mentioned previously, the benefits of nature overlap greatly in each aspect of health. There is also an undeniable link between physical health and mental health. For instance, the physical health benefits of nature on stress reduction also influence mental health benefits and vice versa.
In a publication titled “Thriving with Nature,” The Mental Health Foundation lists the following mental health benefits of nature:
Encourages Greater Wellbeing Through Mindfulness
Being in natural spaces can influence a greater sense of well-being by influencing positive sensory experiences and emotions. The Mental Health Foundation explains, “Research shows that people who are more connected with nature are usually happier in life and more likely to report feeling their lives are worthwhile. Nature can generate many positive emotions, such as calmness, joy, and creativity and can facilitate concentration.”
In addition, nature facilities positive emotions through mindfulness. Being in nature allows us to clear our heads and encouraging us to connect with the present moment. Mindfulness is known to foster a host of health benefits in and of itself, encouraging us to keep the following elements at the forefront of our minds:
Awareness
Acceptance
Objectivity
Peace
Surrender
Generosity
Kindness
Gratitude
Reduces Risk of Psychological Problems
As a result of stress reduction and a greater sense of well-being, nature can also reduce our risk of developing psychological problems and mental health disorders. According to the aforementioned article by the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, “Exposure to natural environments has been linked with decreases in anxiety and rumination, which are associated with negative mental health outcomes, such as depression and anxiety.”
Moreover, by strengthening our connectedness to nature, we can also reduce our risk of developing SUD and addiction. Oftentimes, individuals feel compelled to self-medicate mental health distress through the use of alcohol and other drugs. Over time, these individuals experience a greater risk of developing a chemical dependency in addition to worsening their symptoms of mental health. If we learn to effectively work through and overcome our mental health distress with nature, we can actively prevent substance abuse and associated consequences from wreaking havoc on our lives.
The Benefits of Green Spaces
Green spaces, such as parks and gardens, are essential for our mental and physical health. These spaces provide a natural environment that is easily accessible, allowing us to spend time in nature without having to travel to remote areas. Green spaces have been shown to have a positive impact on our mental health, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, and improving our mood.
In addition to the mental health benefits, green spaces also provide a range of physical health benefits. They offer a space for physical activity, such as walking, running, and cycling, which can help improve our cardiovascular health, reduce obesity, and improve our overall fitness. Green spaces also provide a natural environment that can help reduce air pollution, improve our immune system function, and even reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Furthermore, green spaces can also have a positive impact on our social health. They provide a space for social interaction, community building, and social support, all of which are essential for our mental and physical health. Green spaces can also provide a sense of community and belonging, which can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.
New Challenges and Opportunities
As we move into life in 2025 and all its complexities – urbanisation, rapid tech and global events – finding ways to connect with nature has become a challenge and an opportunity. City living and technology can block us from nature. But by being creative, we can bring nature into our daily lives wherever we are.
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Urban Nature
Urban environments may not have sprawling forests or open meadows but they have unique opportunities to bring nature into the city. By reimagining our surroundings we can create green pockets that bring nature into the very heart of urban life.
Incorporating more green space into daily life is essential for enhancing well-being and health. Engaging with nature, even in urban settings, can significantly improve mental and physical health.
Rooftop and Community Gardens
In cities across the UK and worldwide, rooftop and community gardens have become urban oases. These green spaces turn unused or underused areas into thriving ecosystems that bring people together.
Benefits: Being part of local gardening projects lets you get hands on with nature. Tending to plants, watching them grow and harvesting produce can be super rewarding and therapeutic. These gardens improve air quality, reduce urban heat islands and increase biodiversity by providing habitats for pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Community Building: Community gardens build social connections, creating supportive networks that are so important during addiction recovery. Working with others towards a common goal gives you a sense of belonging and purpose.
Get Involved: Look for existing community gardens in your area or start one. Local councils and environmental organisations often support these projects and can provide resources and guidance.
Indoor Nature Integration
If you have limited access to outdoor space, bringing nature indoors is a great way to experience its benefits. Technology has made it easier than ever to create indoor green spaces that benefit well-being.
Smart Indoor Gardens
For those with no outdoor space, smart indoor gardens are a great option. These innovative systems use hydroponics and automated technology to grow plants without soil. Perfect for small spaces and can be set up in apartments or offices.
Benefits: Caring for plants promotes responsibility and routine which can be beneficial in recovery. Having greenery indoors has been linked to reduced stress, improved mood and increased productivity.
Air-Purifying Plants: Some plants like spider plants, peace lilies and snake plants are air-purifying. They can remove toxins from the air creating a healthier indoor environment.
Creating a Natural Atmosphere: Bring natural elements into your home décor, wooden furniture, water features or natural light enhancements. This concept is called biophilic design and is about bringing the outside in and connecting with nature even indoors.
Virtual Nature Immersion
When physical access to natural environments is limited, technology can be a bridge to the natural world. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) have come a long way and can provide immersive nature experiences that are calming and restorative.
Virtual Reality Nature Experiences:
Benefits: VR can simulate environments like forests, oceans or mountains and let you experience nature from your living room. Studies have shown that virtual nature can reduce stress and anxiety just like actual nature.
Accessibility: This is especially good for those with mobility issues or living in areas with no green spaces.
Nature Apps and Online Platforms:
Guided Meditations: Apps offer guided mindfulness and meditation sessions against natural backdrops.
Live Nature Feeds: Live streams of natural environments like national parks or wildlife reserves.
Limitations and Considerations: While virtual experiences can complement real world nature interactions, they should not replace them. Whenever possible combine both virtual and actual nature exposure for maximum benefits.
Accessibility for All
It is key to make nature’s healing power accessible to everyone. This means creating inclusive programs and adapting environments to meet the diverse needs of all people, regardless of physical ability or background.
Adaptive Outdoor Programs
Adaptive outdoor programs make nature-based activities accessible to people with disabilities. These programs modify activities and provide specialized equipment or support so everyone can fully participate.
Examples of Adaptive Activities:
Hiking: Accessible trails with gentle slopes and stable surfaces for wheelchair access.
Kayaking and Canoeing: Adaptive equipment for people with limited mobility to enjoy water sports safely.
Cycling: Handcycles and tandem bikes for people with varying abilities.
Benefits: Participation promotes physical health, self-esteem and social interaction. Challenges perceptions of limitations and empowers through achievement.
Finding Programs: Organizations like Adaptive Adventures and local outdoor centres offer programs for different needs. Healthcare providers or rehabilitation centres may also have recommendations.
Inclusive Community Events
Creating and attending community events that are inclusive means nature’s benefits are shared by all.
Nature-Based Workshops and Classes:
Benefits: Educational workshops on topics like gardening, conservation or environmental art encourage learning and engagement with nature.
Accessibility: Events should be held in accessible locations, with accommodations such as sign language interpreters or materials in multiple formats.
Cultural Inclusivity:
Diverse Representation: Events should welcome people of all cultures and backgrounds to enrich everyone’s experience.
Cultural Practices: Incorporating traditions and practices from different cultures can deepen the connection to nature. For example, learning about Indigenous land stewardship practices can increase appreciation and respect for the environment.
Community Initiatives:
Environmental Projects: Participating in local clean-ups, tree planting or conservation efforts promotes environmental stewardship and community building.
Collaborations: Partner with schools, community centres and local organisations to reach wider and have more impact.
Technological Aids for Accessibility
Technology can help with accessibility in nature.
Assistive Devices: GPS devices with accessibility features for safe trail navigation.
Apps for Nature Exploration:
Audio Guides: For people with visual impairments, audio descriptions of trails and environments.
Sign Language Nature Guides: Apps with information in sign language for the deaf community.
Virtual Participation: Live-streamed nature events or virtual group hikes for those who can’t attend in person.
By using these creative solutions, we can overcome the obstacles of modern life and connect with nature. Urban environments and accessibility challenges don’t have to stop people from getting the benefits of nature, especially during addiction recovery. Whether through community gardens that transform cityscapes, indoor greenery that brings life to indoor spaces or technology that brings nature to our fingertips, there are many ways to bring nature into our lives.
At the Perry Clayman Project (PCP) we are committed to including these accessible and innovative nature experiences in our programs. We believe by making nature available to all we can enhance the journey of recovery and support long term recovery for everyone regardless of their situation
Nature-Based Therapies and Treatment
Nature-based therapies and treatment are becoming increasingly popular as a way to improve our mental and physical health. These therapies involve spending time in nature, either individually or in groups, and can be tailored to meet the specific needs of the individual.
One of the most common nature-based therapies is forest bathing, which involves spending time in a forest environment to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Forest bathing has been shown to have a positive impact on our mental health, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, and improving our mood.
Another nature-based therapy is horticultural therapy, which involves using plants and gardening as a form of therapy. Horticultural therapy has been shown to have a positive impact on our mental health, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, and improving our mood.
Nature-based therapies and treatment can also be used to treat a range of physical health conditions, including chronic diseases, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. These therapies can help improve our immune system function, reduce inflammation, and even reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Incorporating the Benefits of Nature Into Daily Life
Understanding the benefits of nature is only the beginning of effectively reaping the benefits of nature in daily life and addiction recovery. To fully grasp these benefits, a person must be able to identify and utilise a variety of activities that incorporate natural environments and nature exposure.
A person can undoubtedly experience the benefits of nature by spending intentional time outside every day. However, such benefits may be maximised by incorporating different activities that foster engagement with nature in different ways.
Here are some examples of nature activities to consider incorporating into daily life:
Walk a nearby nature trail
Enjoy a meal outdoors
Practise yoga outside
Get closer to the water
Buy houseplants
Plant a garden, and tend to it daily
Spend a few moments birdwatching
Feel your feet planted barefoot in the grass
Ponder the night sky
Create a butterfly habitat
Plan a camping trip
Participate in wildlife photography
Watch a nature documentary
Discover patterns in leaves or trees
Tune in to your senses when you are outside
Create a nature journal
Soak up the sun
Watch the sunset or sunrise
Individuals can also consider incorporating recreational nature activities that are a bit more demanding. For example, try:
Rockclimbing
Rafting
Surfing
Mountain biking
Building a treehouse
Waterskiing
Backpacking
Sky diving
Kayaking
Reducing the Risk of Substance Abuse With Nature
Unfortunately, many people do not think that they are at risk of substance abuse and addiction; however, it is essential to recognise that addiction can affect anyone. For those who have not yet been affected by alcohol and drug abuse, it is important to understand that nature can help prevent mental health problems and associated alcohol and drug addictions. It does so by fostering wellness benefits that protect against distress and disease.
For those who have been affected by alcohol and drug addiction, or especially those seeking treatment, the Perry Clayman Project (PCP) is here to help
Treating Addiction With PCP
In addition to utilising the profound healing benefits of nature, it is imperative for individuals with addiction to utilise professional resources for establishing and maintaining sobriety. PCP understands that addiction is a catastrophic disease that is ravaging the UK, causing destruction to not only an individual’s life but also the lives of their loved ones. There is no doubt that addiction is a family disease; to effectively recover, families must recognise the vast treatment options and recovery resources available.
Moreover, PCP offers a wide number of inpatient and rehabilitation programmes, ensuring that we meet our clients exactly where they are on their recovery journeys. Our recovery programmes can last anywhere from a few days up to six months, offering access to various treatment modalities, support groups, and other rehab services. We also offer programmes specifically for families, including regular family support meetings and family visits after a loved one completes their first two weeks of treatment.
Some of the specific treatment programmes we offer include:
Alcohol and Drug detoxification
Primary rehabilitation
Secondary rehabilitation
Third-stage supported housing
Daycare rehab
Aftercare
90-Day Programme
One of our most valuable treatment programmes worth highlighting is our 90-day (12-week) programme, as PCP is one of the only treatment facilities in the UK that offers up to three months of extended rehabilitation treatment. This programme is available through both primary and secondary formats. When used as a secondary treatment programme, individuals have access to more specialist treatments and greater educational opportunities.
During this programme, clients will spend each week focusing on one of the Twelve Steps, gradually working through the Steps over the course of their treatment. The 12-Step philosophy provides a valuable framework and foundation for an individual’s early sobriety that will also support them throughout their continued recovery.
It is important to emphasise that the benefits of nature can be experienced during treatment and recovery. At PCP, we can work to create a treatment plan that incorporates nature activities into a daily treatment regimen.
One of the most profound resources available for healing is located right outside your front door. The benefits of nature stretch far and wide, from stress reduction to facilitating deeper spiritual wellness. Further, understanding the benefits that nature can have for addiction recovery is paramount for establishing sobriety and maintaining lasting recovery success. The Perry Clayman Project (PCP) by Rehab Today offers several rehabilitation clinics across the UK, helping individuals of all backgrounds heal from the devastating effects of substance use and addiction. We can customise your treatment plan to ensure that nature-based activities are prioritised in your healing journey. To learn more, give us a call today at 08000 380 480.
