MADISON, Wis. – Want to feel better? Just step outside. Health experts have long encouraged people to enjoy nature, but now some doctors are taking it a step further by writing “nature prescriptions.” This trend is growing as many feel overwhelmed by the chaos in the world.
While you don’t actually need a prescription to enjoy the outdoors, some doctors believe that formalizing the advice helps people take it to heart. “It’s like giving permission to do something that seems unimportant when life feels heavy,” shares Dr. Suzanne Hackenmiller, a gynecologist in Iowa. After personal loss, she found that being in nature was a balm for her grief.
Why Nature Matters
Studies show that spending time outdoors can lower blood pressure, ease stress, and even boost the immune system. Dr. Brent Bauer from the Mayo Clinic states, “We’re wired to be out in nature.” This isn’t just a feel-good statement; there are scientific studies backing it up. Dr. Bauer emphasizes that the benefits are real and measurable.
The idea of issuing nature prescriptions began gaining traction around ten years ago. Dr. Robert Zarr, who is both a doctor and nature guide, founded Park Rx America to help doctors formalize their recommendations. His guidelines encourage discussions with patients about what they enjoy doing outdoors. “The goal is to create a personalized prescription that gets people excited to go outside,” he explains.
So far, nearly 2,000 healthcare providers from the U.S., Australia, and more have issued over 7,000 nature prescriptions through this initiative. Many similar organizations are popping up across the country, showing that this movement is catching on.
Mountain of Data
In a recent study, students at William & Mary in Virginia started their own nature prescription program. They have seen an increase in demand, issuing an average of 22 prescriptions a month in 2025, compared to just 12 in 2020. This reflects a growing appreciation for the benefits of the outdoors among younger generations.
Kelsey Wakiyama, a senior who grew up hiking, shared, “Being outside calms my nervous system. I have good memories of hiking, and that sense of peace returns when I’m outdoors.”
Outdoor Trends
Social media trends show people actively sharing their outdoor experiences, using hashtags like #GetOutside and #NatureTherapy. These platforms have played a crucial role in promoting the mental health benefits of nature. Many users report feeling happier and more grounded after spending time outdoors, further supporting the value of “nature prescriptions.”
The effectiveness of these prescriptions is still being researched. A 2020 study found that more work is needed to understand long-term health effects. Nonetheless, the simple act of getting outside can have profound effects on our well-being.
In conclusion, while the concept of a nature prescription may seem novel, it embodies age-old wisdom: spending time in nature can be a powerful antidote to stress. Whether by a tree, on a trail, or simply enjoying fresh air, stepping outside is a step toward a healthier you.
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