Page 2 - Health and Healing Through Nature Article

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Introduction
The following tables are summaries that have been compiled from a variety of research studies on

Nature’s ability to improve human health and well-being. Despite multiple decades of excellent data on

Nature’s ability to positively impact human health, the medical community has not used this information
well up to this point. One of the medical students who assisted in compiling this information very
astutely observed that city planners and architects seem to study this topic and use the data more than

medical professionals. We would like to help change this.

Rather than dividing the information based on results/outcomes, we chose instead to organize the
information based on a more functional approach. We wanted everyone, no matter where they live or

regardless of their health status, to be able to use this information to improve their health. Whether

someone is homebound or a competitive athlete. Whether they live in a big city or a rural area. Whether
finances are not an issue or they have no disposable income.

This packet is divided into the following sub-category tables, displaying research studies describing the

benefits of Nature:

1. In and Around the Home. In almost concentric circles radiating out from living spaces.

2. In the Local Community.

3. Rural or the Greater Wilderness Community.
4. Wilderness Access.

Each table row represents one study, which is listed by the superscripted number at the end of the

“Results/Outcome” paragraph. These studies can all be found in the “References” portion at the end of
this packet. The “Intervention” of each study is describing what procedure or action was undertaken. The
“Result/Outcome” details a short summary of the benefits and outcomes associated with its’ intervention.

If you are trying to optimize your own health, we encourage you to make Nature an integral part of your
daily life and health routine. If you are a healthcare provider or administrator, we encourage you to share
this information as often and with as many people as possible.

Nature and Healing - David Bilstrom, MD 2