Janice Arnoldi
Janice Arnoldi
Prescribing Nature to Improve People's Health
Prescribing Nature to Improve People's Health
Prescribing Nature to Improve People's Health
Monday 12th August 2024
Learn how doctors are prescribing nature to improve health. Discover the benefits of spending time outdoors with insights from Dr. Melissa Lem.
23 minutes
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Author:
Janice Arnoldi
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Sobriety Toolkit
Body & Mind
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Sexual Stigmas & Myths
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Get the buttons here!Nature's Prescription: How Time Outdoors Can Boost Your Health
Episode Overview
- Spending at least two hours a week in nature can improve mental and physical health.
- Healthcare professionals across Canada are prescribing nature to their patients.
- Nature prescriptions are supported by scientific research.
- Urban dwellers can find green spaces or bring nature indoors.
- Parents can use nature to boost their children's mental health.
Our brains are hardwired to feel calmer and be drawn to these natural spaces
Imagine a world where your doctor prescribes a walk in the park instead of a pill. That's the innovative idea behind PaRX, an initiative by the BC Parks Foundation. In this episode, host Janice Arnoldi chats with Dr. Melissa Lem, a passionate advocate for integrating nature into healthcare. They explore how medical professionals are now prescribing time in nature to boost their patients' health.
It's a simple yet effective approach: spend at least two hours a week in nature, and you'll likely see improvements in your mental and physical well-being. Dr. Lem shares the science behind this approach, citing studies that show significant health benefits from spending time outdoors. For instance, just 20 minutes in nature can help reduce stress and improve mood. But what if you live in a concrete jungle? Dr.
Lem offers practical tips for finding green spaces even in urban settings and discusses the importance of advocating for equal access to nature for everyone. The episode also touches on how parents can use nature to improve their children's mental health. From increasing concentration scores to reducing anxiety, the benefits are substantial. And it's not just about exercise; simply sitting under a tree or walking through a park can make a difference.
Arnoldi and Lem also discuss the broader implications of this initiative, including how it's been embraced by healthcare professionals across Canada. With over 14,000 practitioners on board, including doctors, nurses, and even pharmacists, PaRX is gaining momentum. So why should you tune in? If you're looking for a natural way to enhance your health or seeking inspiration to spend more time outdoors, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice.
It's a refreshing take on healthcare that encourages you to reconnect with nature for better well-being.