Wellness Trends 2020: Prescribing Nature
We are in a waiting room before going in to see the doctor. After a few questions and an examination, the doctor pulls out the prescription pad and writes something: it’s not paracetamol, nor aspirin, not even supplements or vitamins. It says “half an hour walk in the open air”.
More and more academic studies confirm the benefits of connecting with nature and outdoor activities, which become a real “medical prescription” against a static indoor life. In fact, they are an ideal solution to overcome physical disorders such as obesity, breathing difficulties and joint pain or mental ones, including anxiety and depression.
As early as the 16th century, the German-Swiss physician Paracelsus wrote that the art of healing comes from nature and not from laboratories.
But let’s focus on our century: in 1950, only around 30% of the world’s population lived in urban areas. By 2018, that number had grown to 55% and it will increase to 68% in 2050. It is clear that most people do not have a relationship with nature, nor can they enjoy its benefits. Several international clinics are introducing “green programmes” in their protocols and 82% of professionals in the American Society of Landscape Architects say that green areas should be considered an important part in the design of hospitals and wellness centres.
Since opening, Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda has embraced its natural location. The Property is located in a wonderful 11-hectare park, a real outdoor extension of the Spa.
Its three outdoor paths are the perfect place for movement and rebalancing activities: the Fitness Path with functional stages for outdoor training; the 2-km Running Circuit and the Energy and Therapeutic Garden “The Symbol of Life”, designed by the Lefay SPA Method Scientific Committee in collaboration with landscape architects.
The Lefay SPA Team suggests rebalancing and meditation guided by therapists at the five stations of the Garden, which have been created according to Classical Chinese Medicine.
In addition to Stretching of the Meridians, Qi Gong and Tai Chi, already included in Health Programmes, the following activities have been added: Perception walking, Mindfulness Meditation, Conscious full-body walking, Zazen Meditation and Stress-relieving breathing.
These can be found in the new “Natural Wellness Trails of the Five Elements”, combined with specific Signature massages designed according to the Guest’s energy condition.
So we say yes to parks, woods and gardens, especially after a day at the office. If you need some inspiration, please read the new section “Man and Nature” in the Lefay SPA Lago di Garda 2020 brochure, available here.
