Aviva’s latest Picture of Health research reveals a growing trend among Brits using nature to support both mental and physical health. The survey of 2,000 UK adults shows that natural environments, from local parks to coastal escapes, are fostering happiness, reducing stress, and improving overall wellbeing.
Most respondents regularly visit outdoor spaces, with 53% choosing parks and gardens, 39% heading to rivers, lakes, or the sea, and 35% spending time in woodlands or forests. Almost two-thirds actively seek out nature to manage stress or support mental health, and the same proportion spend time in natural settings at least once a week.
The health benefits are clear. 80% said nature boosts their happiness, 74% reported reduced stress and anxiety, and 71% said it improves their mood. Other advantages include better energy (68%), sleep (63%), and concentration (65%). These findings echo a 2023 study by the University of York, which found that green spaces improve mental health outcomes across diverse groups.
The survey also highlighted the role of nature in strengthening social bonds. Ninety-six per cent agreed that social connection is important for health, and fewer than half spend time alone outdoors, underlining the social aspect of being in nature. Families are particularly engaged, with popular activities including nature walks (32%), dog walking (17%), and coastal exploration (16%). Yet 72% believe children today spend less time outdoors than earlier generations, a concern supported by a 2024 Natural England report noting declining outdoor play.
Barriers remain. While 28% face none, many cite lack of time (31%), poor weather (28%), safety concerns (13%), limited green space (11%), accessibility issues (11%), and transport challenges (9%). Respondents ranked access to nature as the strongest environmental factor for mental health at 81%, ahead of housing (69%) and community (67%). Three-quarters believe the government should guarantee access to green spaces, aligning with a 2024 DEFRA policy paper calling for equitable access.
Aviva’s earlier research showed that 90% of UK adults consider local green spaces essential, underlining their role as a community necessity. Dr Suba M., medical director and sustainability lead at Aviva UK Health, explained: “Connection truly is medicine. Spending time in nature often encourages social interaction. These moments of connection can help reduce feelings of isolation, build a sense of belonging, and have a positive impact on our long-term health. On a societal level, ensuring equitable access to natural spaces can help reduce health inequalities across the UK. By making nature more accessible, particularly in underserved or urban communities, we can support the long-term health of the nation. This not only benefits individuals but also eases pressure on healthcare services and delivers positive outcomes for a wide range of stakeholders, from local authorities and employers to the NHS and wider society.”
Aviva is also partnering with conservation organisations to expand access to nature. Current projects include restoring Britain’s temperate rainforests with The Wildlife Trusts, a £38 million, 100-year programme aimed at improving flood resilience and removing carbon. The company is creating woodlands and restoring peatlands with the Woodland Trust, supported by a £10 million pledge to remove 330,000 tonnes of carbon over the next century. It is reviving 250 hectares of saltmarsh with the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust through a £21 million project and supporting urban biodiversity through initiatives such as York’s first floating ecosystem, designed to improve water quality and wildlife habitats.