Australian Doctors Begin Prescribing Time in Nature for Patient Health
Published
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners has recently approved new guidelines for a practice called "nature dosing." Under these guidelines, doctors can suggest that patients spend regular time outdoors, such as walking in parks, visiting beaches, or working in gardens, as part of their treatment plan. The idea is that contact with nature may help improve both physical and mental health.
The guidelines are designed to give general practitioners a clear framework for recommending time outdoors. Doctors may suggest specific activities, how often a patient should take part, and how long each session should last. The approach is intended to support patients who are dealing with stress, anxiety, or other ongoing health concerns, and it can be used alongside other forms of care rather than replacing them.
The new guidelines reflect growing interest in the link between natural environments and wellbeing. Many Australians live in cities, and the college hopes that encouraging time outdoors will be a simple, low-cost option for people looking to improve their health. Further details about how the program will be used in clinics across the country are expected in the coming months.
Sources: SMH.com.au
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