Outdoor wellbeing study framework and research design
Prepared by NaturismRE Pty Ltd
Submitted by: Vincent Marty, Founder
Introduction
The Outdoor Wellbeing Study is a proposed statewide research initiative designed to measure the mental health and community benefits of nature exposure, sunlight, quiet outdoor environments and park-based recreation across NSW. Although research shows that nature supports stress reduction and emotional balance, NSW currently lacks structured data on how residents use outdoor spaces for wellbeing or what prevents greater participation.
This document outlines the study design, research approach and implementation framework.
Purpose of the study
The study aims to:
measure the wellbeing impacts of sunlight and nature exposure
identify barriers that limit outdoor participation
understand how park design influences comfort and use
evaluate the emotional and behavioural outcomes of outdoor engagement
provide evidence for public health strategy and park planning
support preventive mental health initiatives across NSW
The results will guide state and local government planning for healthier, more inclusive public spaces.
Study objectives
Assess how often and in what ways NSW residents use outdoor spaces for wellbeing.
Measure changes in wellbeing associated with sunlight exposure, fresh air and natural environments.
Identify factors that increase or reduce comfort in outdoor spaces, including stigma, privacy, safety and environmental design.
Evaluate demographic differences in outdoor participation.
Provide recommendations for public health programs and park improvements.
Methodology overview
Sampling and recruitment
A representative sample of NSW residents will be recruited through:
online surveys
community programs
schools and universities
local council networks
Data collection tools
Standardised wellbeing indicators
Outdoor participation questionnaires
Sunlight exposure tracking
Perceived safety and comfort scales
Study phases
Phase one. Research partnership formation, ethics approval and sampling setup.
Phase two. Data collection across NSW regions during a twelve month period.
Phase three. Analysis, reporting and recommendations.
Key research questions
How does outdoor exposure influence mental health and stress levels?
Which park features support comfort, confidence and relaxation?
What stops individuals from using outdoor spaces more often?
What design improvements increase participation and wellbeing?
Expected outcomes
A comprehensive wellbeing dataset for NSW
Understanding of environmental factors affecting outdoor participation
Recommendations for preventive health strategy
Guidance for councils on improving park usability
Policy recommendations to increase community engagement with nature
Conclusion
The Outdoor Wellbeing Study will give NSW an evidence foundation for preventive health planning and outdoor space design. It is low cost, scalable and aligned with state health and wellbeing priorities.
—————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————
Evidence brief on nature exposure, sunlight and mental health outcomes
Prepared by NaturismRE Pty Ltd
Submitted by: Vincent Marty, Founder
Introduction
Growing evidence demonstrates that nature exposure, sunlight and quiet outdoor environments support mental and emotional wellbeing. This brief summarises relevant findings to support the Outdoor Wellbeing Study proposal.
Sunlight and circadian regulation
Sunlight plays a vital role in:
regulating sleep-wake rhythms
reducing fatigue
improving mood through serotonin activation
supporting Vitamin D production
Reduced sunlight exposure is associated with lower mood, reduced energy and weakened emotional balance. Outdoor wellbeing practices help counter these effects.
Nature and stress reduction
Nature immersion is associated with:
lower cortisol
reduced anxiety
improved emotional regulation
greater resilience and clarity
recovery from daily stress
Natural settings provide predictable benefits across age groups and cultures.
Outdoor space as a mental health environment
Public parks and reserves offer unique wellbeing advantages:
quiet zones for reflection
fresh air for physiological regulation
green visual environments linked to mood improvement
informal social connection opportunities
Many individuals avoid outdoor spaces due to stigma, discomfort or lack of privacy. Understanding these barriers is essential for planning.
Body confidence and participation
Research shows that self-consciousness reduces willingness to participate in outdoor activity. Feelings of judgment or discomfort discourage people from exercising, exploring parks or using open spaces.
Designated spaces and better environmental planning help overcome these barriers.
Health system relevance
Improved outdoor participation can reduce:
demand on mental health services
stress-related illness
sedentary behaviour
long-term health expenditure
Preventive health benefits justify low-cost research investment.
Conclusion
The evidence clearly supports investment in a structured NSW study to understand how sunlight, nature exposure and park design influence mental health and outdoor participation.
———————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————-
Public space participation and environmental design factors: barriers and opportunities analysis
Prepared by NaturismRE Pty Ltd
Submitted by: Vincent Marty, Founder
Introduction
This analysis outlines the environmental, social and psychological factors that influence how people use public outdoor spaces. Understanding these factors is essential for designing parks and reserves that support wellbeing, confidence and broader community participation.
Common barriers to outdoor participation
Psychological barriers
self-consciousness or fear of judgment
low confidence in busy public spaces
stress or emotional fatigue
uncertainty about acceptable behaviour in parks
Environmental barriers
lack of shaded rest areas
insufficient seating or quiet zones
excessive crowding
absence of natural screening
poor accessibility or unclear pathways
Social barriers
fear of being watched
lack of privacy
stigma affecting comfort in public environments
Opportunities for improvement
Environmental design improvements
adding vegetation buffers for comfort
providing quiet or reflective areas
improving pathway clarity
introducing sheltered seating areas
designating zones for wellbeing activities
Program and planning opportunities
supporting community wellbeing events
encouraging outdoor mindfulness and slow recreation
offering clear signage to improve user confidence
engaging diverse groups in park design feedback
Relevance to NSW planning
The Outdoor Wellbeing Study will help NSW identify which barriers are most significant and how to remove them through:
park design
public health programs
community engagement
preventive wellbeing strategies
This information allows NSW to implement evidence-based improvements across urban and regional areas.
Conclusion
Understanding barriers and opportunities in public outdoor spaces is essential for increasing participation, supporting mental health and improving community wellbeing. This analysis provides a foundation for the Outdoor Wellbeing Study and helps guide future park planning decisions.