Your doctor can now prescribe a visit to the Canadian Museum of Nature in Ottawa to improve your health and reconnect with nature.
At least that’s what a program promises, which was first launched in November 2020 by the BC Parks Foundation in British Columbia, but is gradually being expanded to all provinces.
According to PaRx, the national prescribing program for nature, being in touch with nature would be the best thing for your health to reduce symptoms of depression or risk of cardiovascular disease.
Museum visits are designed to help alleviate anxiety, stress and chronic pain through engaging galleries and interactive educational experiences.
“The health benefits of nature are well known and through this partnership we are able to provide a great introduction to many of the wonders of natural history and the health benefits of visiting a museum,” said Dr. Danika Goosney, president and CEO of the Canadian Museum of Nature, said in a news release Thursday.
“This connection can lead to an increased interest in and appreciation of nature, which can take people in many positive directions,” she added.
This type of visit can also have an impact on the protection of our planet, as research shows that people who are in contact with nature are more likely to engage in pro-environmental behavior.
Launched in British Columbia, the program has seen more than 11,000 healthcare providers sign up since 2020 to prescribe outdoor time for their patients.