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Fowler Davis S, Benkowitz C, Nield L, Dayson C. Green spaces and the impact on cognitive frailty: a scoping review. Front Public Health 2024; 11:1278542. [PMID: 38283295 PMCID: PMC10810992 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1278542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Some literature indicates that contact with green spaces can benefit health and wellbeing, but it is unclear whether this is protective of cognitive health in older people. Using Arskey and O'Malley's framework the aim was to investigate ageing, cognitive frailty and the effects of green access including any causality. The evidence was somewhat inconsistent but suggestive for a beneficial role of green space exposure on cognitive functions. Results suggested that globally, the poorer urban environments are high risk for older people's mental health and these places often lack parks and green spaces. There is evidence that the level of activity and social participation may be greater with access to green spaces and therefore reduces health risks. Green spaces seem to have a role in preventing cognitive frailty, especially for more vulnerable older populations living in poorer urban environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally Fowler Davis
- School of Allied Health and Social Care, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Charlotte Benkowitz
- Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Lucie Nield
- Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Chris Dayson
- Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, United Kingdom
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Kang M, Yang Y, Kim H, Jung S, Jin HY, Choi KH. The mechanisms of nature-based therapy on depression, anxiety, stress, and life satisfaction: examining mindfulness in a two-wave mediation model. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1330207. [PMID: 38187408 PMCID: PMC10768844 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1330207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Nature-based therapy (NBT), which centers around engaging in activities within natural surroundings, has consistently demonstrated therapeutic benefits for mental health. While NBT highlights the potential of nature as a therapeutic resource for promoting mental health, there is limited knowledge regarding its underlying mechanisms. Methods Two hundred seventy-six Korean participants (204 women, mean age = 54.99 ± 23.25 years) participated in a 30-session gardening program held twice weekly for 15 weeks. Structural equation modeling with a two-wave autoregressive cross-lagged model was used to investigate the mediating effects of mindfulness. Results NBT significantly improved the mean scores of all psychological variables. The mediation model was partially confirmed, with mindfulness at post-intervention (T2) mediating the relationship between baseline (T1) depression and anxiety and post-intervention (T2) life satisfaction. However, no significant indirect effect was observed between the path from stress (T1) to life satisfaction (T2). Conclusion Mindfulness is a crucial component for improving mental health outcomes. This study underscores the need to prioritize and emphasize mindfulness practices in NBT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minjung Kang
- School of Psychology, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- KU Mind Health Institute, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeji Yang
- School of Psychology, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- KU Mind Health Institute, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyunjin Kim
- School of Psychology, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- KU Mind Health Institute, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Songhie Jung
- Gardens and Education Research Division, Korea National Arboretum, Pocheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye-Young Jin
- Gardens and Education Research Division, Korea National Arboretum, Pocheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Kee-Hong Choi
- School of Psychology, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- KU Mind Health Institute, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Calogiuri G, Petersen E, Rossi A, Terragni L. The significance of green exercise for the health and wellbeing of Italian immigrants in Norway: a mixed-methods study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1514. [PMID: 37559019 PMCID: PMC10413808 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16375-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Green exercise (physical activity in presence of nature) has beneficial effects for health and wellbeing. Green exercise is a popular form of recreation in the Nordic countries, but participation is lower among the immigrant population from non-Western countries. However, no attention has been given to immigrants from the European Economic Area regarding this topic. Given the cultural and structural differences that surround green exercise in Italy and Norway, the case of the Italian immigrants in Norway is of interest to enrich our understanding of green exercise and its significance for health and wellbeing among immigrants in the Nordic countries. METHODS This convergent mixed methods study investigated the pathways that link green exercise to health and wellbeing among Italian immigrants in Norway. Quantitative data were collected through an online survey (n = 321), which was oversampled to better reflect the sociodemographic profile of the reference population. Logistic regression was used to model the association of green exercise with self-rated health (SRH) or satisfaction with life (SWL) before and after controlling for selected confounders (age, gender, educational level, language proficiency, social support, and childhood experiences with green exercise). Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews (n = 14) and analysed thematically. Merging of the two strands was done using a simultaneous bidirectional approach. RESULTS The logistic regression found a significant bivariate association of green exercise with both SRH and SWL, though the association remained significant only for SWL after controlling for confounders. From the thematic analysis, three themes were identified: Green exercise opportunities contributing to overall satisfaction, Closeness to nature, and Embracing a new lifestyle. The integrated findings indicate that green exercise supported the immigrants' wellbeing, especially by providing stress relief, though socioeconomic status and acculturation may have a major impact on general health. Familiarity, appreciation of nature benefits, social support, and acculturation were identified as facilitating factors. CONCLUSIONS This study provides novel insights into how green exercise supports health, wellbeing, and inclusion among immigrants to the Nordic countries and emphasizes the importance of developing culturally adapted strategies to enhance this health-promoting activity among immigrant populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Calogiuri
- Department of Nursing and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, University of South-Eastern Norway, Drammen, Norway.
- Department of Public Health and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Elverum, Norway.
| | - Evi Petersen
- Department of Sports, Physical Education and Outdoor Life, Faculty of Humanities, Sports and Educational Science, University of South-Eastern Norway, Bø i Telemark, Norway
- Department of Early Childhood Education, Faculty of Education and International Studies, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
| | - Alessio Rossi
- Department of Computer Science, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Laura Terragni
- Department of Nursing and Health Promotion, Faculty of Health Sciences, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
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Shrestha T, Chi CVY, Cassarino M, Foley S, Di Blasi Z. Factors influencing the effectiveness of nature-based interventions (NBIs) aimed at improving mental health and wellbeing: Protocol of an umbrella review. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0273139. [PMID: 37478105 PMCID: PMC10361498 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0273139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Several systematic reviews support the use of nature-based interventions (NBIs) as a mechanism of enhancing mental health and wellbeing. However, the available evidence for the effectiveness of these interventions is fragmentary and mixed. The heterogeneity of existing evidence and significant fragmentation of knowledge within the field make it difficult to draw firm conclusions regarding the effectiveness of NBIs. This mixed method umbrella review aims to synthesise evidence on the effectiveness of nature-based interventions through a summative review of existing published systematic reviews and meta-analyses. A systematic search in PsycINFO, PubMed, Greenfile, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus, Academic Search Complete (EBSCO), Environment Complete (EBSCO), Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Health Policy Reference Centre and Google Scholar will be performed from inception to present. The search strategy will aim to find published systematic reviews of nature-based interventions (NBIs) where improving health and wellbeing is an explicit goal. This is a mixed method review, and systematic reviews with both quantitative and qualitative data synthesis will be considered. Two authors will independently perform the literature search, record screening, data extraction, and quality assessment of each included systematic review and meta-analysis. The individual qualitative and quantitative syntheses will be conducted in parallel and combined in an overarching narrative synthesis. The quantitative evidence will be used to assess the strength and direction of the effect of nature-based interventions on mental health and wellbeing outcomes. Evidence drawn from qualitative studies will be analysed and synthesised to understand the various pathways to engagement, involvement process and experiential factors that may mediate experiences. The risk of bias of the systematic reviews will be assessed using a 16-item Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews 2 (AMSTAR2) checklist. Trail registration: This review is registered on PROSPERO (CRD42022329179).
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Affiliation(s)
- Topaz Shrestha
- School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Marica Cassarino
- School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Environmental Research Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Sarah Foley
- School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Zelda Di Blasi
- School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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Litt JS, Alaimo K, Harrall KK, Hamman RF, Hébert JR, Hurley TG, Leiferman JA, Li K, Villalobos A, Coringrato E, Courtney JB, Payton M, Glueck DH. Effects of a community gardening intervention on diet, physical activity, and anthropometry outcomes in the USA (CAPS): an observer-blind, randomised controlled trial. Lancet Planet Health 2023; 7:e23-e32. [PMID: 36608945 PMCID: PMC9936951 DOI: 10.1016/s2542-5196(22)00303-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, and social disconnection are important modifiable risk factors for non-communicable and other chronic diseases, which might be alleviated through nature-based community interventions. We tested whether a community gardening intervention could reduce these common health risks in an adult population that is diverse in terms of age, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. METHODS In this observer-blind, randomised, controlled trial, we recruited individuals who were on Denver Urban Garden waiting lists for community gardens in Denver and Aurora (CO, USA), aged 18 years or older, and had not gardened in the past 2 years. Participants were randomly assigned (1:1), using a randomised block design in block sizes of two, four, or six, to receive a community garden plot (intervention group) or remain on a waiting list and not garden (control group). Researchers were masked to group allocation. Primary outcomes were diet, physical activity, and anthropometry; secondary outcomes were perceived stress and anxiety. During spring (April to early June, before randomisation; timepoint 1 [T1]), autumn (late August to October; timepoint 2 [T2]), and winter (January to March, after the intervention; timepoint 3 [T3]), participants completed three diet recalls, 7-day accelerometry, surveys, and anthropometry. Analyses were done using the intention-to-treat principle (ie, including all participants randomly assigned to groups, and assessed as randomised). We used mixed models to test time-by-intervention hypotheses at an α level of 0·04, with T2 and T3 intervention effects at an α level of 0·005 (99·5% CI). Due to potential effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on outcomes, we excluded all participant data collected after Feb 1, 2020. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03089177, and data collection is now complete. FINDINGS Between Jan 1, 2017, and June 15, 2019, 493 adults were screened and 291 completed baseline measures and were randomly assigned to the intervention (n=145) or control (n=146) groups. Mean age was 41·5 years (SD 13·5), 238 (82%) of 291 participants were female, 52 (18%) were male, 99 (34%) identified as Hispanic, and 191 (66%) identified as non-Hispanic. 237 (81%) completed measurements before the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. One (<1%) participant in the intervention group had an adverse allergic event in the garden. Significant time-by-intervention effects were observed for fibre intake (p=0·034), with mean between-group difference (intervention minus control) at T2 of 1·41 g per day (99·5% CI -2·09 to 4·92), and for moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (p=0·012), with mean between-group difference of 5·80 min per day (99·5% CI -4·44 to 16·05). We found no significant time-by-intervention interactions for combined fruit and vegetable intake, Healthy Eating Index (measured using Healthy Eating Index-2010), sedentary time, BMI, and waist circumference (all p>0·04). Difference score models showed greater reductions between T1 and T2 in perceived stress and anxiety among participants in the intervention group than among those in the control group. INTERPRETATION Community gardening can provide a nature-based solution, accessible to a diverse population including new gardeners, to improve wellbeing and important behavioural risk factors for non-communicable and chronic diseases. FUNDING American Cancer Society, University of Colorado Cancer Centre, University of Colorado Boulder, National Institutes of Health, US Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture, Michigan AgBioResearch Hatch projects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill S Litt
- Department of Environmental Studies, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA.
| | - Katherine Alaimo
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Kylie K Harrall
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA; Lifecourse Epidemiology of Adiposity and Diabetes Center, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Richard F Hamman
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - James R Hébert
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Thomas G Hurley
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Jenn A Leiferman
- Department of Community and Behavioural Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Kaigang Li
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, College of Health and Human Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Angel Villalobos
- Department of Environmental Studies, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Eva Coringrato
- Department of Environmental Studies, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Jimikaye Beck Courtney
- Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | - Deborah H Glueck
- Colorado School of Public Health and Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA; University of Colorado School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
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Fatima Y, Liu Y, Cleary A, Dean J, Smith V, King S, Solomon S. Connecting the health of country with the health of people: Application of "caring for country" in improving the social and emotional well-being of Indigenous people in Australia and New Zealand. The Lancet Regional Health - Western Pacific 2022; 31:100648. [PMCID: PMC9700301 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2022.100648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Emerging evidence from the western literature suggests an increasing focus on applying nature-based interventions for mental health improvements. However, in Indigenous communities, caring for country has always been central to the Indigenous way of life. Knowing that nature-based interventions effectively improve mental health outcomes, this review collated evidence on the application of caring for country in improving social and emotional well-being (SEWB) of Indigenous peoples in Australia and New Zealand. Three studies from Australia and one from New Zealand, explored the role of country or whenua (land) in the lives of Indigenous people. Participation in caring-for country activities was associated with lower levels of psychological distress and strengthened guardianship relationship with country, which positively affected SEWB. This systematic review offers preliminary evidence on the role of caring for country activities in improving the SEWB of Indigenous peoples and highlights the need for strengths-based approaches to improve the SEWB of Indigenous peoples. Funding None.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaqoot Fatima
- Institute for Social Science Research, The University of Queensland, Indooroopilly, Queensland, Australia,ARC Centre of Excellence for Children and Families over the Life Course (The Life Course Centre), The University of Queensland, Indooroopilly, Queensland, Australia,Murtupuni Centre for Rural and Remote Health, James Cook University, Queensland, Australia,Corresponding author. Institute for Social Science Research, University of Queensland, Indooroopilly, Queensland, Australia.
| | - Yongbo Liu
- Institute for Social Science Research, The University of Queensland, Indooroopilly, Queensland, Australia,ARC Centre of Excellence for Children and Families over the Life Course (The Life Course Centre), The University of Queensland, Indooroopilly, Queensland, Australia
| | - Anne Cleary
- Institute for Social Science Research, The University of Queensland, Indooroopilly, Queensland, Australia
| | - Julie Dean
- Institute for Social Science Research, The University of Queensland, Indooroopilly, Queensland, Australia
| | - Valance Smith
- Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Stephanie King
- Murtupuni Centre for Rural and Remote Health, James Cook University, Queensland, Australia
| | - Shaun Solomon
- Murtupuni Centre for Rural and Remote Health, James Cook University, Queensland, Australia
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Wood CJ, Polley M, Barton JL, Wicks CL. Therapeutic Community Gardening as a Green Social Prescription for Mental Ill-Health: Impact, Barriers, and Facilitators from the Perspective of Multiple Stakeholders. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:ijerph192013612. [PMID: 36294204 PMCID: PMC9603302 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192013612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The UK government has invested £5.77 million in green social prescribing to prevent and tackle mental ill-health. Therapeutic community gardening, one type of green social prescription, provides a range of health outcomes. However, for increased accessibility, a greater understanding of how it impacts mental health and the facilitators and barriers to referral, uptake, and attendance by individuals with mental health problems is required. We conducted and thematically analysed interviews with thirteen stakeholders including social prescribing link workers and garden staff; and focus groups with twenty garden members. The mechanisms by which therapeutic community gardening were suggested to impact mental health were by engaging members with nature and the outdoors, providing hope for the future and facilitating social support and relationships. Factors facilitating referral, uptake, and attendance included a holistic and person-centred approach, which is flexible around health needs. Barriers included awareness of the full offering of therapeutic community gardens and accessibility, in terms of physical location and waiting lists. Given that nature-based interventions have the potential to protect and enhance population health and offer cost savings through reduced reliance on other health services; overcoming these barriers is key to ensuring that therapeutic community gardening is more widely available as an additional mental health treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carly J. Wood
- School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise Science, University of Essex, Colchester CO4 3SQ, UK
- Correspondence:
| | - Marie Polley
- Marie Polley Consultancy Ltd., Hitchin SG4 0AP, UK
| | - Jo L. Barton
- School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise Science, University of Essex, Colchester CO4 3SQ, UK
| | - Claire L. Wicks
- School of Health and Social Care, University of Essex, Colchester CO4 3SQ, UK
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Wood CJ, Barton JL, Wicks CL. The Impact of Therapeutic Community Gardening on the Wellbeing, Loneliness, and Life Satisfaction of Individuals with Mental Illness. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:13166. [PMID: 36293750 PMCID: PMC9602650 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192013166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND literature on the mental health benefits of therapeutic community gardening is not specific to individuals with mental illness and reports short-term outcomes. The impact of the coronavirus pandemic on intervention effectiveness is also unknown. This study examined the impact of therapeutic community gardening prior to and across the pandemic on the wellbeing of individuals referred for support with their mental illness. METHODS garden members (n = 53; male = 36, female = 17) aged 47.38 ± 13.09 years reported their wellbeing at baseline and four follow-up points (FU1-FU4) across the pandemic. RESULTS there was significant quadratic growth in wellbeing (-1.248; p < 0.001) that varied between genders (p = 0.021). At baseline, male wellbeing scores were significantly lower (p = 0.020) than the UK population norm, but there were no significant differences at any other follow-up point. Female wellbeing was significantly lower than the UK population norm at baseline (p < 0.001), FU1 (p = 0.012) and FU2 (p < 0.001), but not FU3 and FU4. CONCLUSION therapeutic community gardening can improve and maintain the wellbeing of individuals with mental illness, even when wellbeing is deteriorating nationally. Future research should further demonstrate the long-term and cost-effectiveness of interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carly J. Wood
- School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences, University of Essex, Colchester CO4 3SQ, UK
| | - Jo L. Barton
- School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences, University of Essex, Colchester CO4 3SQ, UK
| | - Claire L. Wicks
- School of Health and Social Care, University of Essex, Colchester CO4 3SQ, UK
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Gu X, Luo W, Zhao X, Chen Y, Zheng Y, Zhou J, Zeng X, Yan L, Chen Y, Zhang X, Lv J, Lang Y, Wang Z, Gao C, Jiang Y, Li R. The effects of loving-kindness and compassion meditation on life satisfaction: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Appl Psychol Health Well Being 2022; 14:1081-1101. [PMID: 35532366 DOI: 10.1111/aphw.12367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Loving-kindness and compassion meditation (LKCM) was a promising intervention for improving life satisfaction, but previous findings have been inconsistent. The current study provides a systematic review and meta-analysis, including 23 empirical studies on LKCM with life satisfaction as an outcome variable. The primary meta-analysis indicated that LKCM significantly enhanced life satisfaction in pre-post design (g = 0.312, k = 15, n = 451), but the significance disappeared in the additional meta-analysis based on randomized controlled trials (g = 0.106, k = 6, n = 404). Moderator analyses found significant effects for type of control (i.e., the effects of LKCM were inferior to active control group, but superior to waitlist condition), but not for other moderators (i.e., participant type, previous meditation experience, specific protocol, components of LKCM, combination with mindfulness mediation, and intervention length). Narrative review identified self-compassion and positive emotions as important mediators. The practice time of LKCM had indirect but not direct association with life satisfaction. The findings supported that LKCM is promising in increasing life satisfaction, but more studies are needed to investigate the effects with more rigorous designs. Future studies should investigate other potential mechanisms and clarify whether LKCM change the reality or the perception of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodan Gu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Wenting Luo
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Xinran Zhao
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Yanyan Chen
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan Zheng
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Jingyi Zhou
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Xianglong Zeng
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Luyi Yan
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Yifei Chen
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiuqing Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Lv
- Department of Psychology, School of Social Development and Public Policy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yongqi Lang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Zilin Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Chenyu Gao
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuanchen Jiang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Runze Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
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Siah CR, Kua EH, Goh YS. The impact of restorative green environment on mental health of big cities and the role of mental health professionals. Curr Opin Psychiatry 2022; 35:186-91. [PMID: 35579872 DOI: 10.1097/YCO.0000000000000778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To provide an update on insights into the effectiveness of the green environment and forest on the mental health of city dwellers; and the role of mental health professionals in advocating green restorative therapies. RECENT FINDINGS The studies reviewed in this paper confirmed the mental health benefits on individuals who engaged in the green environment and forest. Results of studies showed that the participants reported significantly higher positive effects. However, it is difficult to compare studies because of marked differences in methodology and often lack of biological markers. With the recent global concern about climate warming, mental health professionals have a critical role to influence city planners on the importance of the green environment and the forest. In Singapore, the 'Therapeutic Garden' project and 'Therapeutic Rainforest' program are examples of mental health professionals working with government agencies for a 'city in nature'. SUMMARY The benefits of the green environment and forest are emphasized especially on the psychological well being. In the light of the danger of climate warming, this review highlights the need for city planners to collaborate with mental health professionals to incorporate high-quality green spaces when planning the city of the future. There is an urgent need for better consultation between health agencies and local city government to create an appealing and diverse green environment within the city.
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Calogiuri G, Keegan BJ, Birkheim SL, Rydgren TL, Flaten OE, Fröhlich F, Litleskare S. A mixed-methods exploration of virtual reality as a tool to promote green exercise. Sci Rep 2022; 12:5715. [PMID: 35383263 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-09622-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The salutogenic effects of green exercise are widely recognised, yet many individuals do not engage in this health-related behaviour. Using a convergent mixed methods approach, this study explored the impact of experiencing nature through Virtual Reality (VR) on the decision-making process relating to green exercise. Three experimental trials were conducted (overall n = 136), in which healthy adults were exposed to different VR scenarios reproducing a virtual walk in an existing urban green area. Participants reported medium–high rating of intent to visit the location. Significant pre-to-post increments in future green exercise intention were observed after the VR exposure, though a significance difference was not achieved in comparison with a control condition. Qualitative analysis revealed the impact of the VR experience on behaviour regulation, and highlighted the pivotal role of anticipated emotional benefits. Despite scepticism, the VR experience was effective in arousing curiosity to explore natural environments, which was associated with environmental perceptions as well as nostalgic and socio-cultural perspectives.
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Høegmark S, Andersen TE, Grahn P, Mejldal A, Roessler KK. The Wildman Programme-Rehabilitation and Reconnection with Nature for Men with Mental or Physical Health Problems-A Matched-Control Study. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 18:11465. [PMID: 34769980 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182111465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Men with health problems refuse to participate in rehabilitation programmes and drop out of healthcare offerings more often than women. Therefore, a nature-based rehabilitation programme was tailored specific to men with mental health problems, and long-term illnesses. The rehabilitation programme combines the use of nature, body, mind, and community spirit (NBMC) and is called the 'Wildman Programme'. The presented study was designed as a matched-control study with an intervention group participating in the Wildman Programme (N = 114) compared to a control group receiving treatment as usual (N = 39). Outcomes were measured at baseline (T1), post-intervention (T2), and 6 months post-intervention (T3). The primary outcome was the participants' quality of life measured by WHOQOL-BREF, which consists of four domains: physical health, psychological health, social relationships, and environment. The secondary outcomes were the level of stress measured by the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and the participants' emotional experience in relation to nature, measured by the Perceived Restorativeness Scale (PRS). The intervention group improved significantly in the physical and psychological WHOQOL-BREF domains and in PSS at both follow-ups. The participants' interest in using nature for restoration increased significantly as well. The only detectable difference between the control group and the intervention group was in the WHOQOL-BREF physical domain at the 6-month follow-up. For further studies, we recommend testing the effect of the Wildman Programme in an RCT study.
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Petersen E, Bischoff A, Liedtke G, Martin AJ. How Does Being Solo in Nature Affect Well-Being? Evidence from Norway, Germany and New Zealand. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 18:ijerph18157897. [PMID: 34360189 PMCID: PMC8345692 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18157897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 07/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Background: Solo—being intentionally solitary in nature—is receiving growing attention as a valuable outdoor education program component. Its practice and history have been researched in the context of experiential learning, but few studies have explicitly examined how solo experiences can affect dimensions of well-being. This study investigated a broad range of well-being pathways provided by being solo, based on data from Norway, Germany, and New Zealand. Methods: Using qualitative content analysis (QCA), the solo debrief responses of 40 participants (26 females, age: 19–64 years) were analysed, applying the PERMA-V framework (emotions, engagement, relationship, meaning, achievement, and vitality). Variations in the reports were explored as a function of the national sample, gender, age, prior solo experiences and expectations. Results: The study suggests that hedonic and eudemonic well-being pathways, represented by the six PERMA-V pillars, interrelate strongly. The experience of a range of positive emotions and connecting process during solo highlights two of the most frequent findings related to well-being pathways. The secondary findings suggest minor variations in the well-being pathways for the different national samples, gender and age. Expectations and prior experiences with solo were identified as context factors with minor impact. Further, the data-driven analysis identified specific physical activities, landscape features, sense-activation, perception of time and ‘good’ weather as relevant to the specific experience. Conclusions: Solo experiences provide for well-being-related pathways in a multitude of ways, which highlights the well-being potential of solo implementation across practical fields beyond outdoor education, such as wilderness therapy, and environmental and planetary health initiatives. Future studies should continue to explore solo’s well-being potential in different settings, especially in the context of non-Western samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evi Petersen
- Institute of Sports, Physical Education and Outdoor Life, University of South-Eastern Norway, 3800 Bø i Telemark, Norway;
- Correspondence:
| | - Annette Bischoff
- Institute of Sports, Physical Education and Outdoor Life, University of South-Eastern Norway, 3800 Bø i Telemark, Norway;
| | - Gunnar Liedtke
- Department of Human Movement Science, University of Hamburg, 20148 Hamburg, Germany;
| | - Andrew J. Martin
- School of Sport, Exercise and Nutrition, Massey University, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand;
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