Spending time outdoors in nature can help reduce pressure on the NHS, according to research from Public Health England – as 70% of Brits report that natural green spaces help them feel better both physically and mentally.

Some of the top health benefits associated with being outside include feeling more energetic (79%), less stressed (38%), and sleeping more soundly (28%).

And almost half (44%), of the 2,000 adults surveyed, say it helps to clear their mind, leaving 46% feeling more relaxed – while 42% feel brighter and more calm.

Some of the best things about spending time outdoors include the fresh air (64%), and the scenery (47%) – while 46% love spotting animals and wildlife.

And those who spend 20 hours or more each week in a green or natural space are 41% more productive in their day-to-day lives, compared to those spending less than 30 minutes weekly outdoors.

In fact, three-quarters of all those polled say that time spent in nature provides a boost of happiness that lasts all day – with 92% of those, who spend the most time outdoors, enjoying this feeling.

And those who spend more than indoors than they would like comparatively feel more sluggish (37%), tired (25%), and isolated (16%).

Nearly half say nature helps them feel more relaxed, with four in ten feeling calmer and brighter
Nearly half say nature helps them feel more relaxed, with four in ten feeling calmer and brighter

The study was commissioned by the Greener Communities Fund – a partnership between Hubbub, NHS Charities Together, and Starbucks.

It follows a 2022 study by charity, The National Academy for Social Prescribing, which found spending time in nature can benefit long-term health and wellbeing. Furthermore, 2020 research by Public Health England found it can even help reduce the pressure on the NHS.

Louise McCathie, director of fundraising at NHS Charities Together, said: “People not only feel better when they visit outside spaces, but they work and play better, too.

“And as well as helping us connect with the natural world, outdoor experiences provide a much-needed chance to decompress – and can make a huge difference to our overall health.

“The Greener Communities Fund is a new, multi-million pound fund, helping local NHS charities to create more green spaces across the UK – and improve the nation's health in the process.

“By establishing new community spaces and increasing access to nature, we’re hoping to boost the wellbeing of the UK public, while helping our environment and the NHS at the same time.”

The study also found that as well as feeling healthier, those who spend more time in nature are more likely to adopt behaviours that are good for the environment.

These behaviours include eating a more plant-based diet (18%), choosing to walk or cycle rather than driving (31%), and recycling more (55%).

And 13% have even started picking up litter while out on a walk, to help the environment
And 13% have even started picking up litter while out on a walk, to help the environment

And more than half (54%) said their attitude to the environment has been influenced by spending time outdoors – as 13% have even started picking up litter on their walks.

The study, carried out via OnePoll, found that two-thirds feel spending time outdoors encourages them to take better care of their wellbeing. For 35%, noticing the change in seasons was a favourite outdoor pastime – while 11% loved wrapping up in a warm coat.

Yet, despite enjoying being outside, one in ten said that lack of access to green areas and attractive parks was a top barrier to spending more time in nature. And 19% felt they didn’t have time to head outside more often – while 8% didn’t feel safe enough.

But of those who spend the least time outdoors each week, one in three (34%) said having better access to an area of natural beauty would encourage them to spend more time in the open air.

Greener Communities Fund spokeswoman, Louise McCathie, added: “The more time we spend in nature, the more we all benefit – and it’s so important that everyone gets that chance.

“Our hope is that this fund will give everyone better access to outdoor spaces, and especially those who have limited access currently. That includes hospital staff, patients, and visitors, people living in urban areas, and some community groups.

“Funded by proceeds from the Starbucks 5p cup charge, new spaces will soon be cropping up across the UK – we can’t wait for everyone to be able to enjoy them.”