Natural Benefits

Abstract

Exposure to natural environments is linked to enhanced mood and better mental health with benefits identified for both clinical and non-clinical (or community) populations. The biophilia hypothesis provided by sociobiologist Edward Wilson in 1984 suggests that humans have an innate desire to affiliate with natural environments and that humans derive positive experiences from this connection. It seems that evolution has shaped us to benefit not only physically but also psychologically from exposure to natural settings. Therefore, understanding the process through which exposure to nature exerts its influence is important. It helps to inform clinical practice as increased contact with nature potentially provides an accessible, cost-effective intervention for improving psychological wellbeing.