Health Forest activities in the promotion of human wellbeing

Abstract

Nature environments are important leisure and hobby places for Finns. Finns’ favourite places are found in forests and on the shores of lakes. Nature soothes, encourages exercise and can be a place for meetings between people. Self-motivated leisure activities in nature support health and well-being, which is important in terms of public health. In promoting well-being and health, the amount of contact with nature can be increased, for example, by planning everyday living and recreational environments. It is also possible to increase the use of nature-based solutions in many social and health services according to clients’ rehabilitation and treatment plans. The publication presents information and practical tips for increasing nature contacts and professionally guided nature-assisted activities. Health Forests have been established in different parts of the world. In Finland too, special Health Forest areas and routes have recently been established near hospitals. This publication contains both compiled research data and experiential information learned in the project of Health Forest Models in Promoting Work and Functional Abilities on the planning and implementation of Health Forest activities. The publication presents the Health Forest of Sairaalanrinne in Kajaani city centre. As another example of suitable site for Health Forest activities, Metsähallitus’ site in Kuhmo is described. Health Forest concepts have also been implemented elsewhere in Finland at the same time, of which the Lahti Health Forest (opened in September 2023) and the Kouvola Health Forest (opened in October 2023) are presented in this publication. Health Forests can increase awareness and interest in the health effects of forest nature. The publication is intended for everyone interested in nature-based health promotion. It can be used, for example, by municipal welfare coordinators and planners, professionals in sports and youth services, education and teaching, as well as experts in employment services. In wellbeing services counties, the information provided by the publication can be applied, for example, in primary health care, therapy services and rehabilitation, psychiatric units, family work and social work. There are also application possibilities, for example, in the integration of immigrants, day activities for the mentally disabled and the elderly, and in mental health and substance abuse services. The information can also be applied by, for example, private or public operators in the nature sector, occupational health care professionals, and employees and volunteers of organizations and associations.