Nature’s role in healing

Just spending time outdoors has measurable health benefits. Heather Eliassen, a professor of nutrition and epidemiology at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health explained to The St. Louis American, “Some of the benefits that can come from exposure to greenspaces include improvements in sleep, blood pressure, cognitive function and physical activity, as well as reduced risks of chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer.” Don’t forget the proven mental health benefits: studies show that being in nature reduces stress, enhances mood, and supports the immune system.

Research also indicates that outdoor exercise provides better results than indoor workouts for both psychological and physical health. One recent study found that older adults with balance issues reported improvements in health after taking part in a park exercise program. Outside, your body can be challenged more by the uneven terrain. Moreover, the experience may feel less like a workout and more like a social outing, making it easier to commit to and do.

Five fun outdoor healing activities

If you want to get started on your outdoor healing adventure, here are five activities that combine fun and function:

Nature walks on paved trails. Smooth, shaded paths in local parks offer a low-impact way to build stamina and balance. Bring a lightweight walker or cane if needed.

Gardening with your community. Raised garden beds or container gardening with others means fresh air, purposeful movement, and the joy of social engagement.

Picnics and stretches in the sun. Pack a healthy lunch and spend an active hour at your favorite outdoor spot. Gently stretch your body between bites. Restore your calm and work on joint mobility.

Art for health’s sake. Painting, sketching, or snapping photos of nature encourages creative expression and fine motor skill use. Find the beauty along the path.

Flowers and places. Visit a botanical garden or local landmark for mindful walking and sensory stimulation. Often, these spots offer accessible paths and benches, making them perfect for those with limited mobility.

The role of nursing and rehabilitation

At Four Seasons Healthcare Solutions, we understand that the road to recovery looks different for everyone. That’s why our Nursing and Rehabilitation services are tailored to each individual’s goals, needs, and pace. We not only support medical recovery, but also empower clients to safely participate in summer activities that aid healing. Here’s how professional nursing and rehabilitation services help:

Physical and occupational therapy. Guided exercises and mobility training build the strength and coordination needed for walking trails, playing games, or gardening.

Fall prevention and safety assessments. We help clients and caregivers assess terrain, choose safe footwear, and plan outings that match the client’s ability.

Chronic disease management. For those with conditions like arthritis, COPD, or stroke recovery, our team ensures that summer fun stays safe with proper medication management and pacing strategies.

This summer, let nature be part of the recovery journey. With the right support, healing can happen under blue skies, in green spaces, and alongside the people who care most.

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