Time spent in natural environments can support students' mental, physical, environmental, spiritual, and social well-being. This session will introduce the positive effects of being in nature on social and emotional well-being, and how the Nature Rx program can support graduate student wellbeing. We propose a workshop in which we facilitate conference participants through nature-based activities to assist in coping with the stresses of academic life. We aim to strengthen social connections and create opportunities for self-reflection through connection with nature.
Participants will practice mindful attention and appreciation for the natural environment, and learn how to refresh energy and reduce stress by being outside. We will learn how to appreciate nature in all its forms, and this session will be partially held outside. We will explore how outdoor activities can be used to support mental and emotional well-being, and help combat stress, loneliness, depression, and burnout in graduate students. We will also share resources for participants to connect with nature at the U-M Ann Arbor campus, such as Nature Rx and the Planet Blue Ambassador program. Participants will leave empowered to incorporate nature experiences into their self-care and community-care practices. For more information on the “A Breath of Fresh Air” guided nature experiences, please visit https://hr.umich.edu/benefits-wellness/health-well-being/mental-emotional-health/mental-emotional-health-classes-training-events/breath-fresh-air-guided-nature-experiences.
- Katie Stannard, M.A., Behavioral Health Project Coordinator, Health & Well-being Services; Nature Rx Project Team Leader
- Kelcey Stratton, Ph.D., Chief Behavioral Health Strategist, Health & Well-being Services; Clinical Assistant Professor in Psychiatry, University of Michigan Medical School
- With assistance from: Erin Goatley, Administrative Assistant Intermediate, Child & Family Care
Other non-presenting contributors:
- Aboli Dahiwadkar, Sustainability Programs Coordinator, Graham Sustainability Institute
- Kallie England, Lecturer I, School of Social Work
