Tweetment on the nhs

Nature prescriptions to improve patients’ wellbeing

SCOTS doctors can now prescribe nature-based activities to help patients – such as bird-watching or walking in the woods.

GPs and other health and social care professionals in Badenoch and Strathspey in the Cairngorms will be able to offer so-called “nature prescriptions” under the scheme.

Working in partnership with NHS Highland, the project is designed to support patients on a tailored basis to connect with nature to feel better.

Activities prescribed can include joining nature groups, physical activity outdoors, learning a skill like gardening or wildlife identification, naturebased volunteering HELP Birds and relaxing in nature.

Previous trials of nature prescriptions in Scotland found 71 per cent of patients said they benefitted from them – while nine in 10 prescribing health professionals said they would continue to offer them. People in the region can get support on a selfreferral basis or by being referred through GP surgeries in Grantown-on-Spey, Aviemore, Kingussie and Laggan. Once referred, people are put in touch with one of the Cairngorms Park Authority’s qualified green health link workers. Louise Emslie, one of the park’s green health link workers, said: “Being able to support people to connect with nature and the outdoors, many of whom may otherwise find that difficult, is a huge privilege.

“We hope that any changes made will be positive and long lasting for participants.”

A local resident who has benefitted from the scheme told how it had helped her take up “forest bathing” – a type of ecotherapy where you quietly soak up the forest atmosphere to help combat stress.

They said: “I connected with Louise after a health crisis that shook my confidence in exercise.

“I liked how our meetings happened while having walks in nature. I liked how this was done at a pace I was comfortable with and having a neutral space to talk about my concerns about my health and my confidence.

“I felt inspired after every meeting and more connected to what was possible for me.

“I have connected with forest bathing which has increased my feeling of being relaxed and connected and has introduced me to new friends.”

Local GP at Kingussie Medical Practice, Mary Cauldbeck, said: “The introduction of nature prescriptions has been a helpful addition to local services.

“Being outdoors has a positive impact on general wellbeing and can be particularly beneficial for those with physical or emotional symptoms.”

i felt inspired after every meeting nature scheme participant on benefits