The relationship between nature relatedness and anxiety

First Published November 4, 2014 Research Article Find in PubMed

Authors

1
 
Queensland University of Technology, Australia
by this author
, 2
 
Manchester Metropolitan University, UK
by this author
First Published Online: November 4, 2014

This study investigated the relationship between anxiety and feelings of being connected to nature. Two standardised self-report scales, the Nature Relatedness Scale and the State Trait Inventory for Cognitive and Somatic Anxiety, were used in tandem with a qualitative question. Quantitative results indicated that connection to nature was significantly related to lower levels of overall, state cognitive and trait cognitive anxiety. Qualitative results revealed seven themes: relaxation, time out, enjoyment, connection, expanse, sensory engagement and a healthy perspective. Taken together, these results suggest that opportunities that enhance experiences of being connected to nature may reduce unhelpful anxiety.

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