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Whether it's a walk by the sea or a breath of fresh air in the park, spending time in nature is widely known to support good health and well-being.

Now, new research from the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia shows that while nature-based therapy is strongly supported by allied health professionals, more needs to be done to embed it into routine care.

In the first study of its kind—published in the journal Health & Place—researchers found that 97% of allied health professionals believe that outdoor environments can help prevent and manage a wide range of physical, mental and social health conditions.

Yet, significant barriers from caregivers, clients, and other health professionals can also prevent its use.

Surveying 77 allied health professionals—including psychologists, social workers, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech pathologists, and exercise physiologists—the study found that more than 94% regularly recommend time outdoors to their clients.

"Allied health professionals can play an important role in improving people's access to and use of nature, to benefit their health and well-being, " says lead author and University of Adelaide Senior Research Fellow, Dr. Jessica Stanhope.

"Whether it's persistent pain, high blood pressure, respiratory issues, or depression, allied health professionals recognize the therapeutic potential of time spent in nature.

"But despite their support, barriers such as limited access to green spaces, mobility issues, patient safety concerns, and even skepticism from other professionals can prevent nature-based therapies from being used."

Other common challenges include professional resistance or lack of awareness about the evidence supporting nature-based approaches; environmental factors such as weather, infrastructure, and lack of inclusive design; and client concerns about motivation, ability, or perceived credibility of nature therapies.

More than 70% of allied health professionals had advocated for providing and improving natural environments, with 55% directly involved in efforts to make outdoor spaces more accessible for therapy.

"Even when patients can't physically get outdoors, we know that exposure to nature—through images, sounds, scents, or simply viewing natural scenes—can still be beneficial, " Dr. Stanhope says.

"This is where community gardens, indoor green spaces in aged care facilities, and nature-based learning activities in schools and childcare settings are so valuable.

"Through activities like walking outside, gardening, or even playing on a jungle gym, people are doing everyday skills, building their confidence, capacity and social connection."

Co-researcher Professor Mary Butler from UniSA says nature should be more fully integrated into the design and delivery of allied health.

"We need to translate the research into practical strategies so that nature-based activities become part of standard care, " Prof Butler says.

"That includes improving outdoor spaces through better paths, seating, shade, and fencing, and boosting awareness across the health sector and community about the benefits of nature for well-being.

"With the right support, everyone—including older adults and people with disability—can access the outdoors and its health benefits."

More information: Jessica Stanhope et al, Australian allied health professionals' perspectives on current practice, benefits, challenges, and opportunities in nature-based approaches, Health & Place (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2025.103430  Journal information: Health & Place