The relationship between nature and emotional well-being has been a topic of interest for many researchers. A study titled "Exposure to public natural space as a protective factor for emotional well-being among young people in Canada" explores this connection specifically among adolescents. This blog post aims to help practitioners improve their skills by implementing the outcomes of this research or encouraging them to conduct further research.
Understanding the Research
The study conducted by Huynh et al. (2013) used data from the Canadian 2009/10 Health Behaviour in School-aged Children Survey. It examined the relationship between exposure to public natural spaces and positive emotional well-being among adolescents aged 11 to 16. The study found that while the relationship between natural space and emotional well-being was weak overall, there were modest protective effects observed in small cities.
Key Findings
- Over half of Canadian youth reported positive emotional well-being, with a slightly higher percentage among boys than girls.
- The relationship between natural space and emotional well-being was context-specific, showing stronger effects in small cities.
- Factors such as demographic characteristics, family affluence, and perceptions of neighborhood surroundings had a stronger association with emotional well-being than exposure to natural spaces.
Practical Applications for Practitioners
Based on these findings, practitioners can enhance their therapeutic approaches by integrating nature into their practice. Here are some strategies:
Incorporate Nature-Based Activities
- Outdoor Therapy Sessions: Conduct therapy sessions in parks or gardens where clients can benefit from the calming effects of nature.
- Nature Walks: Encourage clients to engage in regular walks in natural settings as part of their therapeutic routine.
- Mindfulness in Nature: Use mindfulness exercises that focus on the sights, sounds, and smells of nature to help clients ground themselves and reduce stress.
Create Nature-Inspired Environments
- Therapy Room Decor: Use elements like plants, water features, and nature-themed artwork to create a calming environment in therapy rooms.
- Sensory Gardens: Develop sensory gardens at schools or therapy centers where students can interact with different textures and scents.
Encourage Family Involvement
- Family Nature Outings: Suggest families spend time together in natural settings to strengthen bonds and improve overall family well-being.
- Community Nature Projects: Involve families in community projects like planting trees or creating community gardens.
The Importance of Further Research
The study highlights the need for further research to explore the quality and usage of natural spaces and their role as determinants of well-being. Practitioners can contribute by conducting small-scale studies within their communities or collaborating with researchers to gather more data on this topic.
Conclusion
The integration of natural spaces into therapeutic practices offers a promising avenue for enhancing emotional well-being among adolescents. While the current evidence suggests modest benefits, particularly in small cities, there is potential for greater impact through targeted interventions and further research. By embracing nature's healing power, practitioners can provide more holistic support to young people navigating the challenges of adolescence.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Exposure to public natural space as a protective factor for emotional well-being among young people in Canada.
