Chasing Life
Go Outside, Doctor's Orders
Apr 18, 2025
Dr. Melissa Lem, a family physician and president of the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment, shares her groundbreaking approach of prescribing nature to enhance health. Britt Wray, a Stanford researcher and author, discusses the mental health impacts of climate change, particularly climate anxiety in younger generations. Both guests highlight the therapeutic benefits of outdoor experiences and offer insights into fostering resilience amidst environmental challenges. They emphasize the importance of connecting with nature for overall well-being.
31:16
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Quick takeaways
- Spending time outdoors has been shown to improve physical and mental health, including reducing symptoms of diabetes and anxiety.
- Climate anxiety affects many young people, necessitating a balance of hope and action to cope with their emotional turmoil.
Deep dives
The Health Benefits of Nature
Spending time outdoors is linked to numerous health benefits, as supported by extensive research. For example, a meta-analysis found that increased outdoor activities positively influenced various health conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, and ADHD, showcasing nature’s beneficial effects on both physical and mental health. Psychological theories like attention restoration theory suggest that being in natural settings reduces fatigue and irritability by allowing the mind to recover from the stress of urban environments. Additionally, studies have shown that even looking at nature can enhance feelings of empathy and calmness, indicating that human beings are evolutionarily predisposed to thrive in natural surroundings.
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