P04.54. Natural health service: enhancing wellbeing with group walks in green spaces

Abstract

Mental health and wellbeing are increasingly recognized as fundamental to quality of life; at the same time, mental disorders are increasing. In the UK, a quarter of General Practitioner (GP) consultations are about mental health. Alternative programs to address mental health are necessary for patient-centered care. Research suggests that interaction with nature contributes to mental wellbeing. This paper investigates whether participating in a green space walking group-Walking for Health (WfH)makes a difference to mental health and wellbeing in the general population. An English GP developed WfH as an intervention to promote physical activity by providing free, organised and led group walks in local natural environments across England.

“Magic Mirror on the Wall”: is Nordic walking or rambling better for your mental well-being?

“…These findings correspond with the results from the previous studies that have considered the importance of the restorative experiences in leisure walking (e.g. Marselle et al, 2012Marselle et al, , 2013Gatrell, 2011Gatrell, , 2013Davies, Lumsdom & Weston, 2012;Bailey, Allen, Herndorn & Demastus, 2018). In particular, the aesthetic beauty of places, the lack of built environment and the abundance of natural diversity can be perceived as sources of mental relaxation, since walking takes place in some of dramatic and wildest places in the United Kingdom (Crust et al, 2011;Den Breejen, 2007).…”