B.C. doctors can now prescribe national park pass to patients who need nature time
Scientific research has long supported the notion that spending time in nature positively impacts health. Numerous studies have demonstrated that time spent outdoors—whether in forests, parks, or natural landscapes—can reduce symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. The Japanese practice of “forest bathing,” or shinrin-yoku, has been particularly well-documented. Research suggests that spending time in forests can lower blood pressure, reduce cortisol levels (the stress hormone), and enhance overall mood.
In addition to mental health benefits, nature-based activities such as hiking, walking, and outdoor exercise have been shown to improve cardiovascular health, enhance immune function, and boost energy levels. Greenery and fresh air have a calming effect, and being in nature allows for more mindful and restorative experiences. For people struggling with a variety of conditions—ranging from anxiety and depression to chronic pain—spending time in nature may offer a welcome alternative or complement to medication.
Recognizing the power of nature to heal, doctors in British Columbia, Canada, have started to prescribe national park passes to patients as part of a growing initiative aimed at improving health outcomes through nature-based therapy. This approach is grounded in the belief that nature is essential to a healthy lifestyle and that spending time in parks can help people lead more balanced lives.
The program, which began in 2021, focuses on patients with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders, as well as those with chronic illnesses. By providing access to B.C.’s vast network of national parks, doctors offer a practical and enjoyable remedy to improve mental and physical health.
The benefits of this approach are far-reaching. It encourages patients to step outside and be more active and provides them with a space for reflection, relaxation, and connection to the natural world. For individuals who may feel overwhelmed by the pressures of daily life, taking a walk in a serene forest or enjoying the beauty of a mountain trail can be incredibly rejuvenating.
Incorporating nature into healthcare in this way could also reduce reliance on medications, which often come with side effects and long-term risks. While prescription drugs are crucial for managing certain conditions, nature-based therapies can serve as a complementary treatment, potentially reducing the need for pharmaceuticals and promoting holistic healing.
Beyond personal health, British Columbia’s initiative has far-reaching benefits for the environment and society as a whole. Encouraging people to spend more time in nature helps foster a deeper appreciation for the natural world. When people experience the beauty of British Columbia’s forests, mountains, and lakes firsthand, they are more likely to engage in conservation efforts and advocate for protecting these natural spaces.
This initiative also helps build social connections. Community members interested in outdoor activities may unite, strengthening local bonds and encouraging teamwork. Additionally, the mental health benefits of spending time in nature—such as reduced stress and improved mood—can contribute to a greater sense of community well-being.
B.C.’s prescription of park passes represents a pioneering step toward integrating nature into healthcare. By recognizing nature as a valuable therapeutic tool, this initiative addresses mental and physical health challenges and encourages a broader societal shift toward sustainability, conservation, and holistic well-being.
As more regions around the world seek to improve public health and promote sustainable lifestyles, British Columbia’s model offers valuable lessons in how healthcare systems can embrace the natural environment as a source of healing. For individuals struggling with mental health conditions, chronic illness, or stress, the answer may lie not just in a prescription pad—but in the great outdoors.
