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Wednesday, 18 February 2026

The prescription is outside: How science validates nature as essential medicine

A robust and growing body of scientific research confirms that spending time in natural environments provides significant, measurable benefits for physical, mental and spiritual health.

Key physical benefits include reduced stress hormones, lower blood pressure, enhanced immune function and improved recovery from illness or surgery.

Psychological advantages encompass reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression, improved cognitive function and focus, and increased overall life satisfaction. Interaction with nature also fosters a sense of spiritual connection, promotes self-reflection, and can enhance social well-being within communities.

Incorporating "Vitamin N" into daily life, through practices like forest bathing, gardening, or simple walks in green spaces, is a powerful, accessible tool for health regulation.

For centuries, poets and philosophers have extolled the restorative power of the natural world. Now, a compelling convergence of modern scientific research is affirming what intuition long suggested: regular exposure to nature is not merely a pleasant pastime but a fundamental component of human health. From speeding surgical recovery to lowering crime rates, studies conducted over recent decades reveal that immersion in natural environments acts as a powerful regulator for the human body and mind, offering a non-pharmaceutical remedy for some of modern life's most pervasive ailments. This growing field of evidence positions time spent in green spaces—dubbed "Vitamin N"—as a critical, yet often overlooked, pillar of well-being....<<<Read More>>>...