Evidence brief on nature-based wellbeing, body confidence and outdoor participation.

Prepared by NaturismRE Pty Ltd
Submitted by: Vincent Marty, Founder on 10 December 2025 at 15:00

Einführung

This evidence brief summarises research supporting the introduction of designated wellbeing zones in public parks. It focuses on four primary areas that influence community health outcomes:

sunlight exposure and circadian wellbeing
nature immersion and stress reduction
body confidence and emotional wellbeing
barriers to outdoor participation and the role of stigma

The proposed pilot program will test whether voluntary, clearly marked wellbeing zones enhance community engagement and mental health outcomes.

Sunlight exposure and circadian wellbeing

Sunlight plays a central role in regulating circadian rhythms, emotional balance and energy. Research shows that controlled natural light exposure:

supports Vitamin D synthesis
improves mood through serotonin activation
reduces fatigue and stress
encourages regular sleep patterns
enhances overall wellbeing

Many individuals avoid outdoor spaces due to self-consciousness or fear of judgment. Designated wellbeing zones help remove these barriers, allowing people to seek sunlight in a respectful, structured environment.

Nature immersion and stress reduction

Nature immersion consistently demonstrates positive mental health outcomes. Peer-reviewed studies indicate that natural environments contribute to:

lower cortisol
reduced anxiety
improved emotional regulation
greater resilience
improved attention and clarity

Designating small wellbeing zones supports these effects by creating intentional spaces for mindful rest and quiet recovery.

Body confidence and emotional wellbeing

Stigma and body-related self-consciousness limit participation in outdoor activities. Evidence shows that:

body confidence influences willingness to engage in physical and outdoor recreation
low confidence contributes to avoidance behaviour and emotional withdrawal
positive, inclusive environments enhance psychological wellbeing

Voluntary clothing optional wellbeing zones provide a discreet, respectful environment for those who benefit from deeper nature immersion, helping build confidence and reducing the psychological barriers associated with public self-awareness.

Barriers to outdoor participation

Common reasons for avoiding outdoor or park-based activities include:

fear of judgment or social discomfort
lack of privacy
stigma related to body image
uncertainty about acceptable behaviour
overcrowded public spaces

Designated wellbeing zones address these concerns through clear zoning, visual buffers and optional participation.

Social and community benefits

When individuals feel comfortable and supported in public spaces, participation rises, leading to:

stronger community cohesion
more frequent outdoor activity
greater use of parks and reserves
higher local visitation
improved wellbeing across age groups

These benefits align with NSW community and preventive health priorities.

Economic relevance

Although wellbeing zones are low cost, they can contribute to:

increased park visitation
local tourism uplift in regional areas
reduced long-term health expenditure
better use of underutilised public land
improved productivity through emotional wellbeing

A small pilot can produce measurable data to guide future investment and planning.

Schlussfolgerung

Evidence strongly supports the value of designated wellbeing spaces, especially when barriers such as stigma and lack of privacy are addressed. A voluntary clothing optional wellbeing zone allows individuals to engage more confidently in outdoor activity, supporting better mental health and community participation.

The NSW pilot will generate valuable data, helping councils and state agencies design inclusive, effective and sustainable wellbeing infrastructure.