Here are 10 reasons why you might choose to enrol in MA in Spirituality, Ecology & Mental Health at Buckinghamshire New University. 1. Academic Excellence The program is offered by Buckinghamshire New University, renowned for its Centre for Positive...
Climate Anxiety and Positive Psychology
Introduction Most of us will have seen the coverage of the COP 27 summit on climate change in November 2022. Our news feeds are full of reports of extreme weather events and the impact they are having on the planet, nature and people. This crisis threatens the whole...
Finding Well-being in Nature
Introduction Contact with nature has long been thought to have positive impacts on well-being. In recent years this effect has been researched systematically. I hope to give you a brief overview of what has been found, discuss the mechanisms that might underpin these...
Gardening – A Flow Activity or a Mindful Activity?
Is gardening a flow activity or a mindful activity? This was a debate that I had with fellow Positive Psychologist Kim Furnish recently, and we did not agree. Gardening is an activity enjoyed by many, myself included and I often find myself in flow when gardening. I...
Nature’s Strengths
I have often written about the many benefits of being in nature which include increased feelings of well-being and happiness, reduced stress levels, improved concentration and lowered blood pressure. This summer has offered many opportunities to explore varied...
Giving Back To The Ocean
The positive effects between our wellbeing and increased exposure to natural environments is widely referenced in modern literature. Bowler, Buyung-Ali and Knight (2009) are among researchers who have found the positive benefit of going for a walk is larger when...
The power of nature
While we live our busy lives, we tend to forget how beneficial it can be to spend time in nature. Is there anything more beautiful then nature? Being outdoors is not only fun, it is also good for the brain, body and soul. Every minute spent in nature offers a boost to...
Nature’s Spring Gift
Without any effort I am feeling more energised and I’m experiencing more positive emotions. Then I realise why. It’s spring, the days are getting longer and nature shows us that we are on a different trajectory, no longer hunkering down and keeping warm,...
5 Life Lessons From Nature
Too long inside concrete walls and around man made things makes me a little stir crazy! A few minutes sat by the river can quickly alleviate this. There’s a powerful, peaceful and grounding energy in nature that seeps into my being. It brings me serenity, gratitude,...
The Nurturing Power of Nature
Like nature itself, the health benefits gain when experiencing nature are infinite and wondrous. In his renowned study, View through a window may influence recovery from surgery, Roger Ulrich compared the medical records of two groups of patients who undergone gall...









