A recent study from Turku University in Finland reveals that immersing oneself in natural environments supports deeper forms of well-being known as eudaimonic well-being, which includes purpose, autonomy, personal growth, self-acceptance, and meaningful relationships. The researchers surveyed 158 residents across age groups (15–24 and over 60), then further invited 20 participants to creative writing workshops to articulate how nature shapes their inner selves. Commonly reported was a profound sense of nonjudgment trees don’t judge, water doesn’t grade and this relief allowed for honesty and self-awareness.

Supporting this, a meta-analysis covering nearly 4,800 individuals found a statistically significant positive link between nature connectedness and eudaimonic well-being (especially personal growth), alongside hedonic well-being. Other psychology research adds that even short periods in natural settings like forest bathing sharpen attention and reduce stress through “soft fascination,” where our minds rest while still gently engaged. 

Together, these insights show that nature isn’t just mood-boosting in the moment it nurtures long-term psychological flourishing and a stronger, more grounded sense of self