Health Update: Kivi Park wellness program shows time outdoors improves health – What Experts Say

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Kivi Park Community Foundation has shared positive early results from its Nature Prescription Program, a new wellness program that helps people improve their health by spending time outdoors.

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The program allows local healthcare providers to prescribe time in nature as part of patient care. Participants receive free day passes to Kivi Park and are encouraged to spend time walking, relaxing, or being active outdoors. Afterward, they complete a short survey to share how the experience affected them.

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So far, the foundation said in a media release, “the results are clear and encouraging.”
Participants reported the following benefits after using their Nature Prescriptions:

– 100 per cent said they noticed physical improvement

– 83 per cent felt emotionally better

– 67 per cent felt calmer

– 50 per cent experienced better sleep

– 70 per cent felt more socially connected

The results highlight how simple activities — fresh air, natural light, and gentle movement — can work together to support both physical and mental health, the foundation said in its release, and how time spent outdoors can help clear the mind, reduce stress, increase energy, and support healthier daily routines.

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The Nature Prescription Program is a two-year pilot and one of the first programs of its kind in Northern Ontario. It is part of a growing movement across Canada that recognizes nature as an important part of healthy living.

Each Nature Prescription includes five free day passes, which can be used by individuals or families. After completing the follow-up survey, participants receive five more free passes and a discount on an annual pass. Those facing financial barriers can also apply to Kivi Park’s Accessibility Fund for a free annual membership.

“As a charitable organization, we believe everyone should have the opportunity to experience the physical and mental health benefits of the outdoors,” Kerry Lamarche, executive director of Kivi Park Community Foundation, said in the organization’s release. “This program is about building healthy habits and helping people feel better in a simple, natural way.”

The program is supported by Move Medicine, a Sudbury-based health practice focused on movement, mindfulness, and whole-person care.

“At Move Medicine, we see every day how nature supports both physical and mental health,” said Shannon, founder of Move Medicine. “This program makes wellness more accessible and easier to achieve.”

Kivi Park invites healthcare providers and community members to be part of the growing initiative. Any practitioners looking to join should contact Autumn Maki at amaki@kivipark.com.

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