Recreation, Outdoor Education and Wellness at Temple Ambler offers programs that connect participants with our calm, verdant surroundings in many novel ways—all with the goals of helping you to unwind, find your center and connect authentically to nature.

Studies show that the complex relationship between human health and the natural world is more intertwined and interdependent than our societal pressures leave space for. In a world where individuals are hemmed in by urban and suburban walls, commute for on average 2-3 hours of their day, and sit at an office and at a desk for 7-9 hours, the time left to simply be in nature is greatly reduced. Directly mirroring these barriers is the confirmation that without nature, individuals may have greater health risks. So what can we do about this? Get outside, be in nature, enjoy an escape, a green space, a natural environment!

Increasing time in the outdoors, can increase health benefits such as

• Improve your cognitive ability (specifically by boosting your ability to concentrate and increasing your attention span)
• Positively benefit your mood and improve your sense of overall happiness
• Reduce feelings of and physiological responses to stress
• Increase your number of social connections and the quality of your social relationships
• Boost your physical health and well-being

Temple Ambler believes that many of these benefits can and will happen naturally through your visit to Ambler Arboretum. The Ambler Arboretum has several self-guided nature wellness activities that interested participants can engage with on their own walks or hikes. Examples of these activities may include nature-based plant identification and scavenger hunts, or labyrinth self-discovery and reflection.

When led by our facilitators, these programs or activities typically last 60 minutes. The themes and timing may be tailored to specific group/team goals.

Tuttleman Counseling Services

It's not uncommon to experience some type of mental or emotional concern during college. To help you identify, understand and resolve your issues, Temple University offers free, confidential services, such as one-on-one counseling, support groups and educational programs. Assistance is confidential and free of charge. Learn more about Temple University’s counseling services.

Nature Rx

Studies which show that spending time in nature can increase mood and productivity and alleviate stress are proving useful to mental health specialists across the country. These professionals are now prescribing NatureRx to breathe, take a moment for yourself, recharge, reenergize, and experience the outdoor world. Additionally, NatureRx changes people’s mindsets toward being a part of nature rather than being separate entities. The Ambler Arboretum, which encompasses the entirety of the Ambler Campus, is the perfect place for some Nature Rx! Learn more about Nature Rx at Temple Ambler.

Wellness Resource Center

Wellness Resource Center (WRC) at Temple University’s Main Campus provides students with wellness education, resources and prevention services to help you make informed choices about your health. Most services are free or low cost and all are confidential. Learn more about the Temple University Health and Wellness Center.

 

References: 

Holdship, D. (2022, December 17). Nature vs. nurture? iI’s both. Michigan Today. https://michigantoday.umich.edu/2022/12/16/nature-vs-nurture-its-both/  

Nature RX | Cornell Health. (n.d.). https://health.cornell.edu/resources/health-topics/nature-rx

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service. 2018. Urban Nature for Human Health and Well-Being: a research summary for communicating the health benefits of urban trees and green space. FS-1096. Washington, DC. 24 p.