Nature-based recreational physical activities and psychological well-being: A critical review of accessibility, motivation and sustainable recreation practices
1
Department of Sports Management, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Çanakkale, 17100, Türkiye
Abstract
Urbanization, sedentary lifestyles and reduced contact with nature make it increasingly important for adults to use leisure time in ways that support physical and psychological well-being. The aim of this critical review is to examine the possible contribution of participation in nature-based recreational physical activities to psychological well-being among adults within the context of accessibility, motivation and sustainable recreation practices. Current and accessible literature was evaluated within the framework of nature-based recreation, outdoor recreation, green exercise, psychological well-being, stress, anxiety, motivation and accessibility. The reviewed studies suggest that participation in nature walking, outdoor exercise and outdoor recreation may support mental well-being, positive mood, stress reduction, anxiety relief and social interaction. However, available evidence also indicates that outcomes may vary depending on the type, duration and intensity of activity, environmental quality, participant characteristics and access opportunities. Therefore, nature-based recreational physical activities should not be considered only as individual leisure activities, but also as a public health and well-being domain that needs to be supported through accessible, inclusive and sustainable recreation policies. This review aims to contribute to recreation literature by discussing the relationship between nature-based recreational physical activity and psychological well-being from individual, participation-related and practice-oriented perspectives.
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