Green Exercise-Based Therapy: How Movement in Nature Supports Mental Health

What Is Green Exercise-Based Therapy?

Green exercise-based therapy refers to the intentional use of physical movement in natural environments to support mental health and emotional wellbeing.

Rather than exercising indoors or engaging in therapy solely within four walls, green exercise-based approaches combine:

• gentle to moderate physical activity

• exposure to natural settings

• psychological support or therapeutic intention

Movement may include walking, hiking, light aerobic activity, or guided outdoor exercises, depending on the practitioner and client needs.

How Green Exercise Supports Mental Wellbeing

Research consistently shows that exercise and nature each independently benefit mental health. When combined, their effects may be amplified.

Green exercise-based therapy may help by:

• reducing stress and physiological arousal

• improving mood and emotional regulation

• supporting attention, focus, and mental clarity

• increasing motivation and energy levels

• reducing symptoms of anxiety and low mood

For many people, being active outdoors feels more accessible and less overwhelming than traditional exercise or indoor therapy settings.

What a Green Exercise-Based Therapy Session Might Look Like

Sessions vary depending on the practitioner, location, and individual needs.

Examples may include:

• walking sessions through parks, trails, or green spaces

• gentle movement exercises combined with reflection or conversation

• outdoor behavioural activation for depression

• structured exposure to outdoor activity for those avoiding movement

Some sessions may involve talking throughout, while others focus more on movement, observation, and mindful engagement with the environment.

Who Might Benefit from Green Exercise-Based Therapy?

Green exercise-based therapy may be helpful for people who:

• feel low in energy or motivation

• experience anxiety or stress

• struggle to engage in traditional indoor therapy

• find movement improves their thinking and mood

• want a practical, embodied approach to mental health support

As with all therapies, suitability depends on the individual. A qualified practitioner can help determine whether this approach aligns with someone’s needs and goals.

How Green Exercise-Based Therapy Fits with Other Approaches

Green exercise-based therapy is often integrated with established psychological frameworks, such as:

• cognitive behavioural approaches

• acceptance and commitment-based work

• mindfulness and body-based practices

• trauma-informed care

Rather than replacing evidence-based therapy, green exercise-based approaches enhance and complement existing therapeutic models.

Finding a Practitioner Who Offers Green Exercise-Based Therapy

Not all therapists offer green exercise-based therapy, and approaches vary widely. When looking for a practitioner, it can be helpful to understand:

• how movement is incorporated into sessions

• the types of outdoor environments used

• whether sessions are in-person, outdoor, or phone-based while walking

👉 Explore the directory to find therapists offering green exercise-based and movement-integrated approaches.

Final Thoughts

Green exercise-based therapy reflects a growing recognition that mental health is not just cognitive, but physical and environmental.

For many people, moving the body in natural spaces provides a powerful foundation for emotional wellbeing — one that feels grounded, practical, and human.