title: The relationship between nature relatedness and anxiety.
abstract: This study investigated the relationship between anxiety and feelings of being connected to nature. Two standardised self-report scales, the Nature Relatedness Scale and the State Trait Inventory for Cognitive and Somatic Anxiety, were used in tandem with a qualitative question. Quantitative results indicated that connection to nature was significantly related to lower levels of overall, state cognitive and trait cognitive anxiety. Qualitative results revealed seven themes: relaxation, time out, enjoyment, connection, expanse, sensory engagement and a healthy perspective. Taken together, these results suggest that opportunities that enhance experiences of being connected to nature may reduce unhelpful anxiety.
authors.affiliation: Queensland University of Technology, Australia.
authors.forename: Patricia
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Martyn
authors.affiliation: Manchester Metropolitan University, UK e.brymer@mmu.ac.uk.
authors.forename: Eric
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Brymer
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001007:Anxiety / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology*; D003071:Cognition; D004777:Environment; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008603:Mental Health; D008875:Middle Aged; D019368:Nature; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; D011581:Psychological Tests; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012649:Self Concept; D055815:Young Adult
keywords: anxiety; connection to nature; nature relatedness; well-being