Examining group walks in nature and multiple aspects of well-being: A large-scale study

Marselle, MR; Irvine, KN; Warber, SL

Abstract

Purpose: Outdoor walking groups can facilitate interaction with nature, social interaction, and physical activity, yet little is known about their efficacy in promoting mental, emotional and social well-being. National group walk programs are especially under-evaluated for these outcomes. The present study sought to identify the mental, emotional and social well-being benefits from participating in group walks in nature.

Design: Drawing on an evaluation of the Walking for Health program in England, a longitudinal study investigated the mental, emotional and social well-being of individuals who did (Nature Group Walkers) and did not (Non-Group Walkers) attend group walks in nature. Both groups were statistically matched using propensity score matching (n = 1,516). Between group t-tests and multiple regressions were performed to analyze the influence of nature-based group walks on depression, perceived stress, negative affect, positive affect, mental well-being, and social support.

Findings: Group walks in nature were associated with significantly lower depression, perceived stress, and negative affect, as well as enhanced positive affect, and mental well-being, both before and after controlling for covariates. There were no group differences on social support. In addition, nature-based group walks appear to mitigate the effects of stressful life events on perceived stress and negative affect, while synergizing with physical activity to improve positive affect and mental well-being.

Originality / Value: The present study identifies the mental and emotional well-being benefits from participation in group walks in nature and offers useful information about the potential health contribution of national outdoor group walk programs.

Citation

Marselle, M., Irvine, K., & Warber, S. (2014). Examining group walks in nature and multiple aspects of well-being: A large-scale study. Ecopsychology, 6(3), 134-147. https://doi.org/10.1089/eco.2014.0027

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Jun 15, 2014
• Publication Date: Sep 19, 2014
• Deposit Date: May 21, 2015
• Publicly Available Date: Apr 5, 2016
• Journal: Ecopsychology
• Electronic ISSN: 1942-9347
• Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 6
• Issue: 3
• Pages: 134-147
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1089/eco.2014.0027
• Keywords: Group walks; Nature and health; Depression; Mental well-being; Emotional well-being; Social well-being; Walking
• Publisher URL: http://online.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/eco.2014.0027
• Related Public URLs: http://www.liebertpub.com/products/product.aspx?pid=300
• Additional Information: Projects : GRIN