The Healing Power of Nature:
A Lifestyle Prescription for Better Health in the Northwest of England

March 27, 2025

By Dr. Sunil Kumar MBBS FCAI MRCA FBSLM FRSA Dip IBLM

As a Lifestyle Medicine Physician and Health Coach, I often emphasize the importance of nutrition, movement, sleep, stress management, and social connection in preventing and reversing chronic diseases. But there’s one often-overlooked pillar of health that has profound benefits for both physical and mental well-being—our connection with nature.
The scientific evidence is clear: spending time outdoors can lower stress, improve heart health, enhance immunity, and reduce the risk of anxiety and depression. Yet, in today’s fast-paced world, many of us have lost touch with nature.
Here in the Northwest of England, we are fortunate to be surrounded by some of the UK’s most breathtaking landscapes, from the Lake District and Peak District to the rolling hills of Lancashire and the tranquil coastline of Merseyside. Whether it’s a walk through Sefton Park in Liverpool, a stroll along Morecambe Bay, or a weekend hike in the Forest of Bowland, nature is one of the most powerful—and accessible—tools for better health.
The Science Behind Nature and Well-being
Spending time in natural environments isn’t just refreshing—it has measurable health benefits. Here’s what research tells us:

1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety
   Nature has a remarkable ability to lower cortisol levels, the body’s primary stress hormone. Studies show that just 20–30 minutes in a green space significantly reduces stress, helping the nervous system switch from “fight-or-flight” to a state of relaxation.
   A simple walk along the Mersey River in Warrington or an afternoon in Tatton Park can have an almost immediate calming effect, reducing anxiety and improving mood.
2. Supports Heart Health
   Time in nature is linked to lower blood pressure, improved circulation, and a reduced risk of heart disease. Part of this benefit comes from gentle physical activity, such as walking or cycling outdoors, but even passive exposure—simply sitting in a park or by a lake—can have cardiovascular benefits.
   A study in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that people who spent time in green spaces had lower rates of hypertension and better heart rate variability, which indicates a more resilient heart.
3. Boosts Immunity
   Trees and plants release phytoncides, natural antimicrobial compounds that, when inhaled, increase the activity of immune cells known as natural killer (NK) cells. These cells play a vital role in defending the body against infections and even certain cancers.
   Research from Japan on forest bathing (“Shinrin-yoku”) has shown that spending time in woodlands can strengthen the immune system for days or even weeks afterward. The Rivington Terraced Gardens and Delamere Forest are perfect places in the Northwest for this kind of immune-boosting nature therapy.
4. Improves Mental Health
   and Cognitive Function
   One of the most striking benefits of nature exposure is its impact on mental well-being. Studies indicate that people living near green spaces have a lower risk of depression and cognitive decline.
   Even hospital patients recover faster when they have a view of greenery from their window. This is why horticultural therapy—using plants and gardens as part of mental health treatment—is becoming more widely recognised.
   For those living in Manchester, Liverpool, or Chester, regular visits to green spaces like Heaton Park, Calderstones Park, or the Cheshire countryside can significantly improve mood and mental clarity.
5. Enhances Social Connection
   Nature isn’t just beneficial for individuals—it strengthens community bonds as well. Parks and nature trails act as natural gathering spaces, fostering social interaction and reducing loneliness.
   In towns and cities across the Northwest, we see this in action:
   • Families picnicking at Southport’s Botanic Gardens • Friends meeting for weekend hikes in the Lake District • Cyclists and runners enjoying the Tissington Trail in the Peak District
   These shared experiences enhance emotional well-being and encourage a sense of belonging, which is crucial for long-term health.
   Northwest England’s Natural Therapy Zones: Where to Go for Better Health
   The Northwest of England is home to some of the most therapeutic landscapes in the UK. Whether you live in an urban area or a rural village, there’s always a green (or blue) space nearby to recharge your body and mind.
   Urban Green Spaces: The Lungs of Our Cities
   Parks and gardens within cities provide vital pockets of nature that help reduce urban stress and improve air quality.
   • Sefton Park (Liverpool): A popular spot for walkers, joggers, and yoga enthusiasts. The boating lake and palm house provide a peaceful retreat from city life.
   • Heaton Park (Manchester): One of the UK’s largest municipal parks, perfect for walking, cycling, and forest bathing in its wooded areas.
   • Stanley Park (Blackpool): Known for its gardens, lakes, and open spaces, ideal for relaxation and light outdoor exercise.
   Blue Spaces: Coastal and Riverside Well-being
   The coastline and lakes of the Northwest offer powerful mental health benefits. Studies show that living near water can reduce stress and improve sleep quality.
   • Formby Beach & Crosby Beach: Walking along the sand and breathing in the sea air lowers cortisol levels and enhances creativity.
   • Morecambe Bay & Southport Marine Lake: Peaceful waterside spots for mindful walking, birdwatching, and stress relief.
   • Lytham St Annes: A quieter alternative to Blackpool, offering tranquil beach walks and stunning coastal sunsets.
   The Northwest’s Great Outdoors: National Parks and Forests
   For those seeking deeper nature immersion, the Northwest’s national parks and reserves offer the perfect setting for weekend getaways and nature therapy.
   • Lake District National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, ideal for hiking, canoeing, and mindfulness retreats.
   • Forest of Bowland (Lancashire): A designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering gentle walks and stress-reducing landscapes.
   • Peak District National Park: Whether you prefer a challenging hike up Mam Tor or a leisurely cycle along the Monsal Trail, this area is a natural health retreat.
   How to Incorporate More Nature into Daily Life
   You don’t have to go on a long hiking expedition to benefit from nature. Here are simple ways to integrate more outdoor time into your routine:
   • Start your day with outdoor time: A morning walk in the park or a few minutes in your garden can set a positive tone for the day.
   • Use breaks wisely: Step outside during lunch breaks—even 10 minutes of fresh air can boost focus and mood.
   • Plan weekly nature outings: Whether it’s a Sunday stroll in the countryside or a coastal walk, regular exposure to green and blue spaces is key.
   • Bring nature into your home and workspace: Indoor plants, natural light, and even nature sounds can enhance well-being.
   • Practice mindfulness outdoors: Take a moment to breathe deeply, listen to birdsong, or feel the breeze. Mindful time in nature amplifies its benefits.
   A Prescription for a Healthier Future
   In an era of rising chronic diseases, stress, and screen addiction, one of the simplest and most effective solutions is to reconnect with the natural world. Whether it’s an early morning run through the park, a peaceful afternoon by the lake, or a weekend hike in the fells, nature is a medicine that works—no prescription needed.
   So, the next time you’re feeling overwhelmed or fatigued, step outside. Your health will thank you.