Finding Nature

A guest blog by Mia Morgan

At the start of my PhD, I wrote a blog questioning the role nature connectedness could play in supporting people experiencing disordered eating (DE). I also outlined the ways I planned to develop a programme encouraging nature connection, specifically for people experiencing these symptoms. Two years on and I’m thrilled to have learnt about the wide range of ways nature connection can support this population and used this information to develop a prototype of the programme. This blog will briefly take you through this journey and then introduce some exciting opportunities for both people currently experiencing disordered eating and for professionals interested in incorporating nature into their DE services/practice.

I will not detail specific findings from my PhD studies, in an attempt to avoid leading anyone who would like to take up the opportunities below.

The first stage of this project was about understanding what research and knowledge already existed around how nature can support disordered eating recovery. This is why I carried out a review of current studies in this area. I’ve submitted this review for publication, so it will hopefully be available to all soon. Here, I started to build a picture of the various ways nature could influence different aspects of eating psychopathology. What I found interesting was that nature connection was involved in nearly all of these mechanisms, but a nature connection intervention specifically for people experiencing DE was yet to be designed.

There was still more to learn on this topic however, particularly because of the lack of research into first-hand perspectives and experiences of how nature can be a part of people’s recovery journeys. Therefore, to explore this, I carried out fifteen interviews with people with lived experience of disordered eating and five focus groups with professionals who support this population. The results were unbelievably insightful. Though I cannot detail specific findings on the ranging benefits nature can have for this population, I can say that (after reviewing previous literature and listening to the experiences and views of participants) as well as being a potential way to manage DE symptoms, nature connection can broaden people’s perspectives beyond the narrow focus on themselves and their DE thoughts. This can encourage people to see a life beyond these worries and feel a part of something much bigger. Engaging with nature gives people permission to refrain from ‘doing’ or ‘achieving’, encouraging the act of being a little bit more in the moment.

Another, exciting part of this project was (during the abovementioned interviews and focus groups) asking people how an optimal nature connection programme for this population would look. In other words, the design of the programme… would a 1:1, group or self-led format be better? Was there anything that would put people off engaging completely? What would optimise people’s ability to want to be involved and stay engaged? Again, these findings were brilliant and showed various ways a nature programme could be designed for this population.

Although, I cannot disclose too much yet, I can say that the programme we have designed uses a self-led format. It adopts the five pathways to nature connection (see image below), giving people simple weekly activities that can be easily incorporated into their everyday lives, including at times which feel tough. All the activities are designed or adapted specifically for people with DE. Opportunity for choice is incorporated, including choice of the activities themselves but also when and where these are carried out. There is no need to travel anywhere special to perform the activities, they can be done in people’s gardens, balconies, local park etc. Some activities also have versions that can be carried out indoors. There are also invitations to reflect on experiences related to the programme. Centrally, this a very inclusive programme, that does not discriminate in terms of how severe someone’s DE symptoms are or how much experience they have in engaging and connecting with nature. It meets people where they are and welcomes everyone!

Opportunity 1- for people currently experiencing disordered eating:

Would you like to try out an early version of the programme I have described above? Or are interested in finding out more? I’m very excited to say that we are now inviting people who self-identify as experiencing disordered eating (of any severity, you don’t need to have an eating disorder diagnosis) who live in the UK, to try out a 4-week self-led nature connection programme!

This study is delivered online, so you can live anywhere in the UK. Each week you will be invited to carry out several short, simple activities designed to connect you with nature (like I have described above). Activity instructions are simple to follow and are delivered through videos and in writing to ensure you feel supported when carrying out the programme. You will be asked some questions before, during and after the programme, to help with the continued development of the programme!

So, if you are intrigued by the idea of adding nature connection to your coping mechanism toolkit and trying something slightly different, then please consider taking part in this study.

Please email me if you are interested, have any questions or would like to sign up- m.morgan16@unimail.derby.ac.uk

See more information on this opportunity in the flyer below.

Opportunity 2- for professionals interested in/currently incorporating nature into their DE services/practice:

If you are integrating nature into the support you provide people with disordered eating, or are interested in doing so, I would love to hear from you! I’m currently in the early stages of planning ways to build a community of like-minded individuals working in (or inspired by) this space 😊

Please email me- m.morgan16@unimail.derby.ac.uk

Back in March 2015, after a ‘Towards a Daily Dose of Nature’ event during a Nature & Wellbeing Summit in Bristol, I introduced the concept of nature as a ‘dose of nature’ through a graphic depicting ‘nature pills’. This was an exercise to encapsulate the vast benefits of nature on health and wellbeing in a format familiar to many – the drug packet. The idea was compelling; nature, with all its health benefits and positive ‘side effects’, seemed like it should be flying off the shelves. The image went a little viral, but I soon decided to stop using it. Why? Because nature is not a commodity to be consumed at our convenience; it’s not merely an adjunct to our wellbeing but rather a foundation upon which our wellbeing rests.

Copyright Miles Richardson 2015

Nature’s Role in Wellbeing: More Than Just a Dose

The notion of a ‘dose of nature’ frames nature much like any other consumable resource – something to be taken in measured amounts for human benefit. However, this perspective can diminish the profound, intrinsic connection we have with the natural world. Nature isn’t just beneficial for health in isolated “doses”; it’s fundamental to our existence and wellbeing. Nature connection isn’t a part-time relationship.

Connection to nature isn’t just about the frequency of visits or the time spent; it’s about fostering a deep, ongoing relationship. Nature manages our emotions, teaches resilience, and offers a space for reflection and recovery from life’s stresses. For instance, the compassion that comes from virtually embodying nature or the emotional regulation facilitated by being with nature speaks to a connection that transcends the transactional nature of a “dose”.

Reframing Nature’s Role in Healthcare

The biopsychosocial model, as proposed by Engel in 1977, was revolutionary in acknowledging the role of psychological and social factors alongside biological ones in health. However, it’s time to expand this model further so that it reflects the integral role nature plays in our health. Such a one health model suggests that our wellbeing is not just influenced by biology and psychology but is deeply intertwined with our connection to the natural world.

Healthcare models, particularly the biomedical approach, often treat health as merely the absence of disease, focusing on treatment rather than prevention or wellness. But integrating nature into health isn’t just about simply prescribing it like a medication; it’s about normalising nature in our daily lives – but perhaps nature prescriptions can be part of that. If so, it’s important to create a situation where nature is a core component of health education, policy, practice and daily living. This means to including nature’s role in medical training, promoting urban planning that prioritises green environments, and encouraging lifestyles where nature is not an escape but an integral part of our days.

This connection with nature isn’t just for personal wellbeing, it is also essential for sustainable living, where human and environmental health are seen as interdependent. We must move away from the idea of nature as a resource for wellbeing to understanding it as a basic need, akin to nutrition or social connections.

Writing this blog has left me feeling somewhat torn, we must tell the story of nature’s profound impact on our lives in ways that grab attention, while ensuring nature isn’t seen as just another option. It is our origin, our wellbeing, and our future. Rather than reduce it to a pill, better to elevate it to a pillar of health and life.

The Tune into Nature Music Prize aims to celebrate nature and we’ve been listening to entries since early January. The winners have now been announced and they and shortlist the have been featured on BBC Radio and in The Guardian. You can listen to the show on catch-up or try the playlist.

We regularly hear about the climate and biodiversity crises, but fostering hope and forging a new bond with nature is part of the solution. The entrants of the Tune into Nature Music Prize exemplify this, offering music that not only celebrates but also inspires hope through our connection with the natural world.

The competition welcomed entries from musicians and singer/songwriters aged 18-30 whose original work demonstrates a true collaboration with nature including sounds of the natural world. Two entrants, of very different styles, wowed the judges so much that they awarded the prize jointly.

Two entrants, of very different styles, wowed the judges so much that they awarded the prize jointly.

The first winning track, Dawn by Josephine Illingworth, 23, offered total engagement in the sound world of the mountain.

Josephine said “Dawn, Aurora is a piece made from sounds I collected over several weeks of sleeping alone in mountain huts across the Dolomites. Its lyrics are taken from entries left in the guestbooks of these huts by past visitors. It is a tapestry of the memories and experiences taking place across the mountains, and a call for us to see life and movement in things we may think are silent. I am so honoured to be chosen for the Tune Into Nature prize, and I hope that you can listen to the song, and that perhaps it touches you in some way”

The second winning track, Nightingale by Wildforms, aka Dan Cippico, turned mesmeric bird song into a brilliant drum n bass track.

Dan said “I’m excited that the interplay of nature and music is being celebrated by a prize such as this, and I’m so grateful for the opportunity it’s provided for my music – especially to be heard by such an established panel. My track is based upon a Nightingale that I recorded singing in the UK last Spring. It was my first time hearing the bird, and I was instantly inspired by its song, which to me, evoked the Jungle and Drum & Bass music genres that were a major influence on my musical upbringing.”

 Nine other artists were shortlisted for the Prize, including a range of genres from Hip Hop, Rock and Pop to Jazz, Folk and Classical, showing the universal appeal and relevance of nature as a source of inspiration and connection. Here’s a playlist of their and the winners’ tracks.

The BBC has supported the shortlisting and judging process with expertise from their music teams and presenters.  The final tracks were previewed across BBC Radio networks, including Radio 1, 6 Music and Radio 3, which has devoted a special edition of Unclassified to featuring the winners and shortlisted artists, with further airplay planned on Radio 2 and BBC Introducing shows.

Elizabeth Alker, presenter of Radio 3’s new music show Unclassified, said: “Unclassified is a show for artists who work across genres so I’ve really enjoyed being a judge for this prize which welcomes acts from a range of different disciplines. The future of the planet affects us all and it’s been a privilege to hear talented young composers make work which celebrates and advocates for the natural world. Our special ‘Tune Into Nature’ episode of Unclassified is a showcase of all the shortlisted acts and each one deserves to be heard on BBC Radio 3”.

Alongside backing from the University of Derby’s Nature Connectedness Research Group, the competition is backed by a collaboration of recognised environmental-loving organisations including Yorkshire Sculpture Park, The Conservation Foundation, EarthPercent and Sounds Right.

As part of the ‘Connected Treescapes‘ project we’ve been exploring the benefits of trees, their governance and how people value them. All to inform the design of future treescapes. The detailed research papers that focus on how trees support wellbeing and pro-environmental behaviour are a little way off, but meanwhile we’ve summarised some of the essential findings in the graphic below.

You can see there’s a circle of connection…

• Access
• Engage
• Celebrate

…with each informing the next. Access brings opportunity to engage and build the deeper connection needed to get the maximum benefits for wellbeing and pro-nature behaviours. Sharing the stories leads to Celebration for yet deeper connection, but also to inspire others to Access and Engage.

There are some tips at each stage for getting the most benefits, on governance and for fostering the values and beliefs that bring a sense of place and community.

Design for inclusive access

Create accessible habitats for connection through creative design of trails and sit spots, spaces to get away, and spaces to be with others. Grow trees in and near where people live. Partner with community organisations to create opportunities for everyone to visit, notice, and enjoy nature.

Offer opportunities for engagement that nurture care and connection

Creative use of the pathways to nature connection to prompt rich sensory and emotional engagement with the beauty and wonder of nature. Explore personal, and cultural meanings of nature in past, present and future. Foster compassion through conservation and citizen science activities.

Celebrate stories, cycles, and connections

Share stories of community access and engagement and celebrate the growth and change of people’s relationships with nature. Events, communications, art and conservation successes can inspire others to access and engage.

In conclusion, the ‘Connected Treescapes’ project underscores the vital role trees play in our lives, not just as environmental assets but as integral components of our wellbeing and community identity. By focusing on access, engagement, and celebration, we create a virtuous cycle that not only enhances personal connections to nature but also fosters a collective commitment to environmental stewardship. Together, through thoughtful governance and community involvement, we can nurture a deeper appreciation and active participation in the life cycles and stories of our trees, building a greener, more connected future.

Thank you to Katapult for doing an excellent job of turning my concept sketch into reality.

By Dr Carly Butler

Following our previous handbooks, which offer an introduction to connecting people with nature, and helping organisations connect with nature, we are delighted to launch our newest handbook – the Nature Connected Communities Handbook, a guide for inviting communities to notice, engage and relate with the more-than-human world, for closer community-nature relationships.

There is growing activity and interest in nature-based community initiatives around the United Kingdom, which help people connect with each other, their local areas, and with the natural world. Such initiatives take many forms, and can include community events, rewilding a patch of grass in a suburban street, or developing a community garden, through to creating a greener city, and everything in between. As well as benefitting individual and community wellbeing and resilience, such initiatives can improve nature’s wellbeing and resilience by boosting biodiversity and creating more space for more nature. Crucially, these initiatives can also help strengthen people’s relationships with the rest of nature, improving nature connectedness which is associated with even greater benefits for personal, social and environmental wellbeing.

The handbook includes some practical guidance and inspiration with tips and case studies from those who are designing and delivering excellent green community initiatives and generously shared their expertise and experiences with us. We also link to some brilliant online resources and networks that offer support for help nature-based community projects. With improving human-nature relationships being at the heart of what we do in the Nature Connectedness Research Group at University of Derby, our particular focus for the handbook was on how such projects can spread and deepen community nature connectedness, by helping communities grow emotional and meaningful relationships with the rest of nature.

Research demonstrates how important an individual’s sense of nature connectedness is for their own wellbeing and pro-environmental behaviour. A focus on growing nature connectedness at a community level has benefits that go beyond the individual, supporting community wellbeing and larger scale pro-nature values and actions. When communities share a sense of feeling a part of the rest of nature, we edge closer to the social tipping points for transformational change in human-nature relationships.

As Aldo Leopold noted over 75 years ago, humans are part of a wider community of life, including non-human beings. A deeply nature connected community is one that recognises humans and more-than-humans are all citizens of shared common spaces, in which people and nature flourish together. Such communities are based on relationships and a sense of kinship between people and the rest of nature, with practices of love, care and respect between all lives at its core. The human members of nature connected communities:

* Understand that we are part of nature, not separate from it.

* Grow deeper emotional connections with animals, plants, and other living things.

* Engage with the natural world in ways that help all forms of life.

* See animals, plants, and the environment as members of our shared community.

* Work to improve the wellbeing of both people and nature together.

The Nature Connected Communities Handbook explores how green community initiatives can nurture relationships between humans and the rest of nature that support the recognition and celebration of the interconnectedness of humans and the rest of nature within communities. We were guided by the number one message from those organisations involved in initiatives on the ground: listen to communities. A successful community project has to reflect the needs and interests of communities themselves. As such, we offer the guidance as a basis for exploration and inspiration, for those communities interested in supporting emotionally meaningful relationships between humans and the rest of nature. The offerings will hopefully inspire reflection, discussions and playful questioning into the spaces between human and non-human community members.

Community as River

We draw on a metaphor of a community as river, that flows together as one. Springs are the source of nature-connected communities, the principles from which an initiative begins. Currents are how they move, the things that enable easy flow around obstacles and blockages within an initiative. Streams carry human and more-than-human community members together into closer relationship – these represent the modes of human-nature interaction that a community initiative can nurture. The three streams are Notice, Engage and Relate which flow progressively towards a recognition of communities as made up of both human and more-than-human citizens.

Springs: Principles of nature-connected communities that recognise the commonality of humans and the rest of nature.

Currents: Practical tips for connecting communities with nature and supporting movement and flow within projects and hubs, based on the experience and knowledge of those on-the-ground, delivering successful green community initiatives.

Streams: Design for a nature connected community by creating opportunities for people to notice nature, engage with nature using the pathways to nature connectedness, and relate with non-human community members.

Resources

The handbook comes with a collection of resources:

1. A workshop guide with some suggestions for exploring the ideas in the handbook with community groups
2. Urban Safari – a printable nature-noticing activity that can be used in any environment at any time of year focused on sensory, emotional and meaningful engagement with nature
3. Nature Connection Seeds – a printable deck of cards that can be used flexibly to design and develop nature connection projects and activities, with some suggestions for use
4. External resource hubs and networks – signposts to support and practical guidance for delivering green community projects.

Case Studies

As well as inviting those leading inspirational green community projects to share their top tips for creating nature-connected communities (the Currents), we gathered some case studies to showcase their innovative and successful initiatives. The case studies illustrate the power of gardens, woodlands, art, nature connection activities and green hubs to connect communities with nature, and emphasise the importance of listening to communities, co-design, inclusion, systems-based approaches, and bringing life into nature-depleted spaces.

Share your examples!

With nature-based community initiatives continuing to spread and grow, we want to collect examples of projects and community-based events and activities that help support nature connectedness so they can be shared to inspire others. Let us know of creative, fun, and powerful ways of encouraging communities to notice and celebrate the nature around them, to engage with the pathways to nature connectedness for sensory, emotional, aesthetic, meaningful and compassionate moments with nature, and to consider the perspectives and rights of the more-than-human. Whether it is an example you’ve seen elsewhere or something you’ve delivered yourself, please visit our webpage and add to the public database: https://www.natureconnectedness.net/nature-connected-communities

Thanks

Our thanks go out to the fabulous Open and Honest for design and Catherine Chialton for illustration, who have – once again – made the handbook look beautiful. Thanks also to those who attended our Nature Connected Communities workshop in May 2024 and contributed to the tips collated here, particularly those who shared their projects and initiatives. Thanks to Lara Pike for help with the workshop, and a huge thank you to Wates Family Enterprise Trust who funded and supported this work.