New research from the University of Turku in Finland highlights the profound positive effects of nature, particularly forests, on eudaimonic well-being. This form of well-being, characterized by a sense of purpose, self-acceptance, personal growth, and positive relationships, contributes to enduring life satisfaction.
The study, involving 158 residents of Turku across various age groups, found that interactions with nature similarly benefited all participants. They reported enhanced self-acceptance and a clearer understanding of their personal values. Nature engagement acted as a catalyst, fostering deeper connections with oneself, others, and the environment.
Joha Järekari, a doctoral researcher at the University of Turku, explained that nature is crucial in helping individuals identify life priorities, thereby fostering independence and supporting personal development. The research also emphasizes the value of co-designing nature-based tourism experiences to support personal transformation, tailoring them to users' needs for growth.
Nature offers a non-judgmental space that positively influences self-acceptance for all ages. As Järekari stated, "Spending time in nature brought to the surface what was really important to the participants in their lives, increasing their sense of agency and autonomy." This suggests natural environments facilitate introspection and self-discovery, contributing to a more robust sense of self.
Co-author Salla Eilola stressed the importance of a comprehensive appreciation for nature's value in shaping human lives. The findings suggest nature's impact on well-being is multifaceted, influencing core aspects of identity and life purpose beyond mere stress reduction. The research advocates for increased societal dialogue on nature's significance, particularly in urban planning, where its value is often overlooked.