How does nature contribute to health and well-being? And how can healthcare professionals apply this knowledge in practice? The updated Nature and Health Handbook provides answers. This third edition was written by associate professor of clinical psychology Jolanda Maas of Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and Annette Postma of Gezond&Groen.
The revised manual brings together the latest insights from systematic reviews and meta-analyses on the relationship between nature and health. For the first time, the focus is not only on prevention, but also on recovery and treatment of people with health problems - such as mental complaints or chronic conditions. The use of nature as a form of sustainable care and part of planetary health is also discussed.
"We now know: nature works. Time for action in healthcare practice," said Maas, who has been researching the impact of nature on health for almost two decades. "Whereas there were hardly any studies in 2000, there are now many more high-quality studies. There are also more and more studies examining the benefits of using nature for people with health problems. The studies all point in the same direction: the more exposure to nature, the better for health."
Practically applicable and science-based
Healthcare professionals often recognise the importance of nature, but still regularly lack the scientific foundation or practical tools to get started with it. This manual provides the science. This is a prerequisite for medical professionals to take nature seriously as a source for health. Besides an overview of the main mechanisms of action - such as stress reduction, promotion of exercise and strengthening the immune system - the guide also contains references to practical tools for (para)medics and their chain partners from the social domain and green space, including the updated Nature for Health Toolkit.
Maas: "It's not just about greening the (care) environment. Care professionals can also use nature much more consciously for the benefit of their clients. Think of healthcare professionals giving consultations outside or referring patients to green activities."
Postma: "Especially people with a low socio-economic position often do not go to nature of their own accord, but they turn out to benefit the most. The warm hand of a healthcare provider, who refers or guides them, helps them to move, relax or meet more - and that contributes to their health. The manual and toolkit help caregivers take that up practically and quickly."
What's new in this edition?
- Addition of meta-analyses for a stronger scientific foundation
- Separate section on effects of nature in illness and recovery
- More practical tips and resource references
- Harnessing nature for planetary health and sustainable care.
Who is the manual aimed at?
The Nature and Health manual is aimed at healthcare professionals who want to integrate nature into their work. Think of (GP) doctors, practice support workers, nurses, physiotherapists, psychologists and social workers.
The manual is an initiative of Annette Postma (Groen & Gezond) and was developed in cooperation with Association Physician and Lifestyle, Alles is Gezondheid and Jolanda Maas of the Free University Amsterdam. Made possible in part by: KAMG, Green Care Alliance, The Green GP, The Sustainable Nurse, The Outdoor Psychologists and Vrijhe Universiteit Amsterdam.
Getting started with practical tools
It turns out that nature has added value for health. But how do you deal with this next? How do you use nature for health? In the updated toolkit Nature for Health, www.natuurvoorgezondheid.nl you will find all kinds of handy guides, exercises, inspiration stories, a step-by-step plan and videos to get started right away.