Nature therapy study shows outdoor experiences boost healing and wellbeing

Hiking in autumn. Two hikers is walking in forest. Couple with backpacks trekking together in woodland — image: ©Zbynek Pospisil | iStock

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New research from the University of Manchester reveals that nature therapy, spending time outdoors, can improve mental wellbeing, support emotional healing, and boost resilience

A recent study from the University of Manchester shows that nature therapy, immersing yourself in parks, gardens, or woodlands, can have profound effects on mental health. Participants reported that time in nature helped them process emotional pain, reduce stress, and reconnect with a sense of purpose. The research highlights how simple outdoor experiences may offer a valuable complement to traditional mental health support.

Meaningful moments spent in nature

Manchester researchers examined ‘ecotherapy,’ a form of outdoor nature therapy involving activities such as woodland walks, time near water, gardening, or sitting quietly in nature with a trained therapist. The team reviewed global studies to explore how people described their most meaningful moments in these experiences.

Many study participants found that moments in nature helped them process pain, let go of the past, and rediscover a sense of purpose. Participants described that simple experiences, such as watching trees grow and decay or feeling the wind on their face, were helpful.

Some individuals described nature as a mirror for their own lives. Witnessing natural cycles of growth and renewal in nature helped them accept difficult experiences and feel more present. Others outlined a strong sense of connection and belonging in nature, which brought comfort and made personal problems feel more manageable.

Nature therapy helps people accept change, release emotional pain, and reconnect

These experiences were not linked to religion; people from various backgrounds described spirituality in their own words, focusing on connection, awe, and meaning rather than belief.

The study suggests these moments can have lasting effects, helping people accept themselves, release emotional pain, and find new direction.

“Nature therapy does not replace traditional talking therapies, but it can offer something different that traditional treatments may not.

Many people told us that being in nature helped them see their lives differently – simple moments like watching trees grow, decay, and renew gave them permission to accept change, pain, and uncertainty, while feeling present and connected to something bigger than themselves,” commented Minwoo Kang, first author.

“At a time when many people feel overwhelmed or anxious about the future, these experiences often help people reconnect with hope and a sense of purpose.”

“This research shows that therapy doesn’t always have to happen in a room,” said co-author Professor Terry Hanley. “For some people, being outdoors creates the space they need to reflect, heal, and move forward. As mental health services face growing demand, nature-based approaches could be a valuable part of a wider, more humane response to wellbeing.”

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