Can time outdoors become part of healthcare?, Pg II

Key Highlights:

• Healthcare systems globally are exploring nature-based interventions like green prescriptions and blue prescriptions to complement conventional care.
• These interventions aim to address rising rates of stress, anxiety, and chronic diseases by encouraging time in natural environments.
• Forest bathing (shinrin-yoku), originating in Japan, is another approach focusing on mindful engagement with forests.
• The UK's National Health Service has incorporated green and blue prescribing into its social prescribing programs.
• While research indicates mental health benefits, evidence for long-term physical health outcomes remains limited.

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Detailed Insights:

• Green prescriptions involve healthcare professionals recommending activities in parks, gardens, or other green spaces.
• Blue prescriptions encourage spending time near rivers, lakes, wetlands, or coastal areas.
• These approaches are part of social prescribing, where non-medical support is integrated into healthcare.
• Forest bathing emphasizes being fully present in a natural environment rather than focusing on physical activity.
• Other structured nature-based interventions include horticultural therapy and care farming.
• Studies suggest benefits such as reduced anxiety, improved mood, better attention, and reduced cognitive fatigue.
• Experts caution that these interventions are complementary and do not replace conventional medical treatments.
• Wider adoption in India faces challenges due to rapid urbanization, pollution, safety concerns, and unequal access to green spaces.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Green Prescriptions: Healthcare recommendations for activities in parks, gardens, or other natural green spaces.
• Blue Prescriptions: Healthcare recommendations for activities near water bodies like rivers, lakes, or the coast.
• Social Prescribing: A healthcare approach connecting patients to non-medical support and activities within the community.
• Forest Bathing (Shinrin-yoku): A Japanese practice of spending quiet, mindful time in a forest environment to enhance well-being.