the Healing Power of Green: How Nature Boosts Mental Wellbeing
Research increasingly demonstrates a strong link between exposure to nature and improved mental and physical health, a connection actively being explored and promoted by researchers at Vrije Universiteit (VU) Amsterdam. jolanda Maas, a researcher at VU, emphasizes that access to nature isn’t simply a pleasant amenity, but a “proven effective factor for health.”
Maas and her colleagues have developed a ”Nature and Health Manual” alongside a practical toolkit, aiming to translate scientific findings into actionable strategies for healthcare professionals.A key finding is the potential to move therapeutic interventions outdoors. Psychologists are already experimenting with “walk-and-talk” sessions in natural settings, and physiotherapists are utilizing open-air spaces for rehabilitation exercises. Studies indicate patients often experience greater comfort,vitality,relaxation,and engagement when therapy takes place outside.
The benefits extend beyond simply being in nature; biodiversity plays a crucial role. maas explains that the substances and microorganisms released by plants and trees can strengthen the human immune system. Furthermore, green spaces contribute to climate mitigation by absorbing CO2 and reducing urban heat island effects.
This understanding is driving the national ‘Green Mental Health Care’ programme, where VU researchers are acting as research coordinators. The program focuses on increasing biodiversity within the grounds of mental health institutions, aiming for a mutually beneficial outcome for both patients and the surroundings.
For Maas, nature isn’t just a research subject - it’s a personal restorative practice. She incorporates a daily walk during her lunch break to clear her head and enhance her work enjoyment, frequently visiting the Amsterdamse Bos and a green area near her home on the A2. She also appreciates the positive impact of the redesigned VU campus square, noting its seating areas and diverse plant life contribute to wellbeing and social interaction. She advocates for the preservation of the VU Botanical Garden, recognizing its value as a unique learning and meeting space.
Despite growing awareness, Maas observes that the potential of greenery in healthcare remains largely untapped. To address this, her team developed ‘GreenIT!’, a tool designed to identify areas for advancement in utilizing green spaces.A critical component of successful implementation is training healthcare professionals to integrate nature into their practice – whether through conducting conversations outdoors or referring patients to nature-based activities.Training courses could further facilitate experimentation with nature-based interventions.
Those interested in learning more can access the Nature and Health Manual at http://www.natuurvoorgezondheid.nl/.
(Source: https://vu.nl/nl/nieuws/2025/hoe-natuur-onze-mentale-gezondheid-verbetert)
