Nature has long been recognized as having numerous physical and mental health benefits, but researchers now believe it may also be a key tool in combating loneliness.
A new project called Recetas brings together experts from around the world to study the effects of nature-based social prescriptions on loneliness. The initiative focuses on creating outdoor activities that promote connection, community, and a sense of belonging among participants.
In Australia, five site facilitators are leading groups of asylum seekers and refugees through bat-watching, beach explorations, and “sniff-fari” – a nature walk focused on smelling different plants. These activities are designed to be fun, inclusive, and tailored to the interests of each participant.
According to research, spending time in nature can have a profound impact on our mental health. Studies have shown that people who live in areas with more green space near their homes report fewer instances of loneliness. Conversely, those living in “lonelygenic” environments – marked by factors like car dependency and loss of tree canopy – may experience weakened social connections.
Nature also has the power to restore our attention, priming us for positive social interactions in the present moment. However, it can also evoke nostalgia and reminders of past experiences, which is why researchers emphasize the importance of co-creation and sensitive facilitation.
For participants like Nerkez Opacin, a social studies research fellow at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, nature-based activities have become a lifeline in addressing loneliness. “Nature often evokes nostalgia and beautiful memories of home – and even though many of our participants fled their homes, nature seems to remind them of a time they felt safe there,” he says.
The Recetas project aims to provide more than just individual friendships; it seeks to foster a sense of community and connection among its participants. By harnessing the power of nature, researchers hope to develop innovative solutions to tackle loneliness and promote mental well-being in vulnerable populations.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20241224-why-spending-more-time-in-nature-can-help-you-feel-less-lonely