You're invited to the Inaugural Nature for Wellness Symposium on November 7-8 at Rackham Graduate School (4th floor). The event highlights nature-focused practices and the profound impact nature has on human health, well-being, and flourishing. Keynote speakers include Captain Sara Newman from the National Park Service and Dr. Robert Ernst, the University of Michigan’s Chief Health Officer and Associate Vice President of Student Life for Health and Wellness. You can also experience panels that include lightning talks and presentations on research, student initiatives, and well-being prescriptions.

“This symposium is our gift to the university community,” said symposium creator Samuel Kocurek, Nature Rx Project Team member and School for Environment and Sustainability (SEAS) second-year graduate student. Organized by Kocurek and Nature Rx at Michigan, Kocurek explained, “The Nature for Wellness Symposium will hopefully encourage joy and connection while also bridging the discussions on campus about sustainability, wellbeing, and health. ” 

Kocurek combined initial grant funding from a Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum student prize with grants from LSA, SEAS, Rackham, Planet Blue Ambassador Program, ITS, and the National Park Service into an inaugural symposium plan. This event will focus on exploring and promoting nature-based interventions to enhance the health and well-being for students, faculty, and staff. 

“Nature can have many positive effects on overall well-being,” said Kelcey Stratton, chief behavioral health strategist in University Human Resources. “This symposium also aligns with Vision 2034 and Campus Plan 2050 initiatives around health, well-being, and enhancement of natural spaces around campus.”

Through this symposium, organizers hope to center current work and propel further utilization of nature for formal and informal practices, contributing to the “vibrant and health-conscious campus culture” articulated in the university’s Vision 2034 Plan.

Kocurek added, "There’s a wealth of research into the benefits of nature on health–from lowering blood pressure and reducing stress to elevating mood and reducing rumination, along with evidence-based research into positive impacts for diabetes, and other health outcomes."

All sessions are free and participants may come and go as schedules allow. 

Learn More and Register for the Nature for Wellness Symposium 

Visit the Nature Rx site for the symposium schedule and link to register.