A growing body of research confirms what we intuitively know: Nature is good for us! My PhD investigated how a wide range of teenagers in the City of Cape Town related to Nature. More than 90% of the young people surveyed felt positive about Nature. Teens – and I suspect people of all ages – value spending time in Nature.

Studies show that spending time in Nature lifts depression, improves energy levels and boosts overall well-being. Levels of the stress hormone cortisol decrease while walking in forests, reducing stress and hostility, and improving sleep and vigour.

Physical and mental health conditions that respond positively to ‘Nature therapy’ include ADHD, dementia, depression, cognitive stress, heart conditions, obesity, PTSD, stroke, and rehabilitation after hospitalisation.

Cape Town has a network of parks, gardens, beaches and nature reserves where we can play, heal and be inspired. I can think of no better city in which to pursue my passion of connecting people with Nature.