As Earth Day approaches on the 22nd of April, we’re reminded of the many ways in which caring for the environment is also a way of caring for ourselves. At St John of God University Hospital, our commitment to sustainability isn’t just about reducing waste or improving energy efficiency — it’s also about recognising the role that nature plays in our overall wellbeing.
In line with this, Shirley Gleeson, Senior Social Worker, in the St John of God University Hospital Social work department has developed a new digital wellbeing guide titled How Nature Can Support Mental Health Recovery. This booklet is designed to support staff, parents, and visitors in connecting with nature in small but meaningful ways — both on our hospital grounds and in everyday life.
This guide draws on the principles of the "One Health" approach, which acknowledges the interconnectedness of human health, and the health of the environment. At its core, the guide is a practical resource that helps individuals use nature as a tool for supporting their mental health in a respectful and sustainable way.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Mindfulness practices that can be done outdoors — even in short moments
- Sensory awareness activities that bring attention to the sounds, sights, and textures around us
- Simple breathing and grounding techniques to reduce stress and promote calm
- Tips for engaging with nature respectfully
Whether you’re walking through our grounds, noticing birdsong during your lunch break, or simply taking a moment to breathe deeply outside, this guide offers ways to pause, reconnect, and reflect.
This booklet is part of a wider movement within the hospital to become more environmentally conscious — from introducing reusable 2Go Cups to embracing paper-lite communications.
Together, let’s celebrate Earth Day by honouring the connections between our environment and our wellbeing — one mindful step at a time.
