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Understanding the Role of Nature Engagement in Supporting Health and Wellbeing during COVID-19

DARCY, Patricia, TAYLOR, Jennifer, MACKAY, Lorna, ELLIS, Naomi and GIDLOW, Christopher (2022) Understanding the Role of Nature Engagement in Supporting Health and Wellbeing during COVID-19. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19 (7). ISSN 1660-4601

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Abstract or description

The importance of natural environments in supporting health and wellbeing has been well evi-denced in supporting positive mental and physical health outcomes, including during periods of crisis and stress. Given the disproportionate impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have been greatest for those who are most vulnerable, understanding the role of natural environment and alternative forms of nature engagement in supporting health and wellbeing for vulnerable groups is important. This study explored how nature engagement supported health and wellbeing in those with a pre-existing health condition during the first UK lockdown. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 adults with a pre-existing health condition and analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Four themes were identified: COVID-19 versus nature; Nature as an extension and replacement; Nature connectedness; and Therapeutic nature. The findings show the importance of nature in supporting health and wellbeing in those with a pre-existing health condition through engagement with private and public natural environments, micro-restorative opportunities, nature connection as an important pathway, and the therapeutic benefits of nature engagement. The present research extends the evidence-base beyond patterns of nature engagement to a deeper understanding of how those with existing health conditions perceived and interacted with nature in relation to their health and wellbeing during the first UK lockdown. Findings are discussed in relation to health supporting environments, micro-restorative opportunities, and policy implications.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: nature engagement; health inequalities; health and wellbeing; COVID-19; qualitative
Faculty: School of Life Sciences and Education > Sport and Exercise
Depositing User: Christopher GIDLOW
Date Deposited: 22 Jun 2022 15:54
Last Modified: 24 Feb 2023 03:50
URI: https://eprints.staffs.ac.uk/id/eprint/7274

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