The connection that heals
Whether through quiet reflection, gentle movement, or simply taking in the beauty of the living world, spending time in nature supports both emotional and physical health.
Finding well-being in nature
The connection between nature and well-being is simple and powerful. When we spend time in natural spaces, we tend to feel more grounded, relaxed, and healthy. Exploring diverse landscapes allows us to quiet the mind, notice details we might otherwise miss, reflect on what matters most, and sometimes even spark new ideas. The benefits for emotional and physical health are well-documented.
Connecting and caring
Caring for our natural environment supports healthy communities and honors cultural connections. At MBGNA, we promote stewardship and encourage thoughtful engagement with the living world. As we care for and protect these spaces, we deepen our own connection to nature and help ensure that these landscapes continue to thrive.
A campus-wide commitment to well-being
MBGNA's commitment to nature, health, and wellness is part of a larger national movement across college campuses called the Campus Nature Rx Network. With the combined power of MBGNA, M|Healthy, M|Recreation, University Health and Counseling, UM Human Resources, and many other campus partners, Nature Rx at University of Michigan provides planned events and programming as well as self-guide opportunities to integrate nature, health, and wellness into the lives of students, faculty, staff, and the broader community.
A list of upcoming events and programs can be found at the Happenings@Michigan campus events calendar. The Michigan App contains Nature Rx's maps and guides for self-directed nature immersion.
Nature-Based Workshops and Retreats
Looking for ways to support well-being within your team, department, or unit? MBGNA offers customized workshops and retreat experiences that explore the connection between nature and well-being. Programs can be designed as stand-alone sessions or incorporated into a larger retreat or team gathering.
For more information, contact [email protected]
Ways to connect
Beyond simply exploring our gardens and natural areas, we invite you to experience these spaces as places to support your own well-being, whatever that looks like for you.
Health & Wellness in Nature
At Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum, we’ve long believed that nature supports healing, balance, and connection. Whether it’s a quiet walk, a moment of play, or simply noticing the world around us, time outdoors can help us feel more grounded and whole. This page gathers simple practices and trusted resources to help you explore the many ways nature can support your well-being right here on our trails or wherever you find yourself outside.
For seasonal inspiration, don’t miss our winter Every Day Outdoors prompts.
Learn more
If you’re interested in the science and stories behind nature and well-being, explore these MBGNA resources:
Blog: Nature’s Role in Our Mental Health
Podcast: Roots and Reach: Exploring the Connection Between Nature and Mental Health
Faculty, Staff, and Students
MBGNA is a living classroom and research landscape for the U-M community. Whether you’re studying the connection between nature and health, exploring new ways to support student well-being, or looking for spaces that can deepen your teaching or outreach, we’re here to help.
Research on Nature & Health
Our gardens, natural areas, and collections offer unique opportunities to investigate how time in nature supports physical, mental, and social well-being. Faculty, staff, and students conducting research in this area are encouraged to connect with us early in their planning process. If you’re interested in exploring a new project at MBGNA, we welcome proposals across disciplines.
Learn more or submit an inquiry.
Student Group Outreach & Use
Student organizations are invited to use our spaces for events, workshops, and wellness activities.
U-M student page
Faculty Use of MBGNA Spaces
Faculty may reserve garden and arboretum spaces to support teaching, field-based learning, and community engagement.
Learn more here.
Nature Rx @ U-M
Nature Rx encourages students to spend restorative time outdoors as part of a holistic approach to well-being. MBGNA’s trails and gardens offer countless low-pressure, accessible opportunities for moments of calm, reflection, and play.
Clinical Work
MBGNA is open to mental health professionals and physicians interested in incorporating natural settings into their work. Individual sessions can be held in a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces.
Contact us
For additional information or assistance with clinical space reservations and parking, please contact us.
