Guides @ UF: Health Humanities and Nature based therapies: Resources for Well Being Round Students

Nature-based Therapies: Major Resources

Nature-based therapies are increasingly supported by research data, a broader and broader range of individual studies that begin to make sense of a broad and complex field. This research support continues to grow and with this growth also comes an increasing number of programs designed to support nature engagement in meaningful and valuable ways. Programs include social prescription, training, experiential solo and group activities, as well as physician prescriptions.

Campus Nature Rx

Forest bathing activities and materials

Shinrin yoku- and the translation from the original Japanese, Forest bathing, was researched and Japan and now is a practice supported by the national health system. This practice is also increasingly being adapted as one of the nature-based therapies practiced in the United States.

Sounds and virtual nature activities

Studies show that virtual nature engagement can positively impact well-being.

Activities to try outdoors

Attached are some worksheets for outdoor activities, and below are some books about outdoor activities.

Nature Rx by Donald A. Rakow; Gregory T. Eells
ISBN: 9781501715280

Publication Date: 2019-05-15

The Nature Rx movement is changing campus life. Offering alternative ways to deal with the stress that students are under, these programs are redefining how to provide students with the best possible environment in which to be healthy, productive members of the academic community. In Nature Rx, Donald A. Rakow and Gregory T. Eells summarize the value of nature prescription programs designed to encourage college students to spend time in nature and to develop a greater appreciation for the natural world. Because these programs are relatively new, there are many lessons for practitioners to learn; but clinical studies demonstrate that students who regularly spend time in nature have reduced stress and anxiety levels and improved mood and outlook. In addition to the latest research, the authors present a step-by-step formula for constructing, sustaining, and evaluating Nature Rx programs, and they profile four such programs at American colleges. The practical guidance in Nature Rx alongside the authors' vigorous argument for the benefits of these programs for both students and institutions places Rakow and Eells at the forefront of this burgeoning movement.
Sharing Nature with Children by Joseph Cornell
ISBN: 9781883220730

Publication Date: 1998-03-01

When Joseph Cornell's classic book reached its 20th anniversary, Cornell drew upon a wealth of experience in nature education to significantly revise and expand his book. New nature games-favorites from the field-and Cornell's typically insightful commentary make the second edition of this special classic even more valuable to nature lovers world-wide. The Sharing Nature movement that Cornell pioneered has now expanded to countries all over the globe. Recommended by Boy Scouts of America, American Camping Association, National Audubon Society and many others.