RESEARCH

Effect of Nature-Based Physical Activity on Post-Traumatic Growth Among Healthcare Providers with Post-Traumatic Stress

This randomized controlled trial examines whether walking in nature promotes post-traumatic growth (PTG) and improves psychophysiological markers among healthcare providers with traumatic stress compared to sitting in nature. Results will reveal whether active engagement in natural environments leads to greater psychological and physiological benefits than passive exposure after three months of intervention.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Mental Health Challenges/Trauma, Caregivers/Healthcare Professionals

Setting or Context: Natural Areas/Parks/Forest

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Mental Health, Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Greater Sense of Purpose, Increased Sense of Belonging (Reduced Isolation), Improved Stress Management, Improved Cognitive Function, Improved Physical Health, Faster Recovery Times, Decreased Need for Pain Medication

Allied Profession Intersections: Recreational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Forest/Ecotherapy, Nursing

Type of Activity: Outdoor Gardening, Forest/Natural Area Immersion, Mindfulness/Visualizations

Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies, Randomized Controlled Trials, Quantitative Research

Measurement and Evaluation: Metrics for Physical Health, Patient-Reported Outcomes, Standardized Assessment Tools, Longitudinal Studies

Access: Paid

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Summary

This study investigates the impact of nature-based physical activity, specifically walking in natural environments, on post-traumatic growth (PTG) and associated psychophysiological changes among healthcare providers experiencing traumatic stress. PTG refers to positive psychological changes that can emerge after struggling with life crises, while traumatic stress often leads to negative outcomes like PTSD. The randomized controlled trial will compare two groups: one engaging in nature walks and another sitting in nature. Participants will be assessed for trauma intensity and excluded if they already exhibit PTG or lack trauma symptoms. Over 12 weeks, the experimental group will walk five times a week in a natural park, while the control group will relax in the same environment. Psychological measures (PTGI, TSC-40) and physiological markers (cortisol, BDNF, CRP, IL-6, HRV) will be evaluated at baseline and after three months to determine the intervention’s effectiveness.

The study aims to provide insights into how exposure to nature through physical activity can promote PTG and improve psychophysiological health. Healthcare providers, often exposed to high levels of stress due to their demanding work environments, are an ideal population for this research. By comparing nature-based walking with passive exposure to nature, the trial seeks to clarify whether active engagement in natural settings offers additional benefits for mental health and resilience. The findings could inform strategies for stress management and mental health interventions using accessible and cost-effective methods like nature therapy.

Link

Noushad, S., Ansari, B., & Ahmed, S. (2022). Effect of nature-based physical activity on post-traumatic growth among healthcare providers with post-traumatic stress. Stress Health, 38(4), 813-826.

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