Exploring the Synergy of Music and Nature for Enhanced Mental Health and Wellbeing

Mental health challenges affect millions worldwide, prompting researchers and practitioners to explore diverse ways to support wellbeing. A recent paper offers a fresh perspective by examining how combining music and nature-based interventions can improve mental health. This scoping review brings together evidence from studies that use both music and nature strategies, revealing promising approaches to enhance emotional and psychological wellbeing.

!Eye-level view of a person playing guitar outdoors surrounded by trees

How Music and Nature Impact Mental Health

Both music and nature have long been recognized for their positive effects on mental health. Music can reduce stress, improve mood, and foster social connection. Nature exposure is linked to lower anxiety, better attention, and increased feelings of calm. The paper highlights that when these two elements are combined, they may create a stronger, more holistic effect on wellbeing.

For example, listening to calming music while walking in a park or participating in group drumming sessions outdoors can deepen relaxation and engagement. The review points out that these interventions often target conditions such as depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders.

Types of Combined Interventions

The research categorizes interventions involving both music and nature into several types:

• Outdoor music therapy: Sessions where music therapists conduct activities like singing, instrument playing, or songwriting in natural settings.

• Nature soundscapes with music: Using recordings of natural sounds (birds, water) mixed with music to create immersive audio experiences.

• Community music events in green spaces: Group performances or participatory music-making held in parks or gardens.

• Mindfulness and music in nature: Combining guided mindfulness practices with music listening or creation outdoors.

  
  

These approaches vary in structure and duration but share the goal of leveraging the restorative qualities of nature alongside the emotional power of music.

Benefits Observed in Research

The review summarizes findings from multiple studies that report several benefits from combined music and nature interventions:

• Reduced stress and anxiety: Participants often show lower cortisol levels and self-reported stress after sessions.

• Improved mood and emotional regulation: Music and nature together can lift spirits and help manage difficult emotions.

• Enhanced social connection: Group activities outdoors foster a sense of belonging and support.

• Greater engagement with therapy: The enjoyable and novel setting encourages participation and adherence.

  
  

One study described in the paper involved older adults attending weekly drumming circles in a garden. Over time, participants reported feeling more relaxed, socially connected, and mentally refreshed.

!High angle view of a small group playing drums in a sunny park

Practical Examples and Applications

Several practical examples illustrate how these combined interventions can be applied:

• Hospitals and care homes: Outdoor music sessions in gardens can provide patients with a break from clinical environments, promoting healing and wellbeing.

• Schools and youth programs: Nature-based music activities can support emotional development and reduce anxiety in children and teens.

• Community mental health services: Offering group music-making outdoors can build social networks and reduce isolation.

• Workplace wellbeing initiatives: Organizing lunchtime music walks or outdoor concerts can help employees manage stress.

  
  

These examples show the flexibility of combining music and nature in different settings to meet diverse mental health needs.

Challenges and Considerations

The paper also discusses challenges in implementing these interventions:

• Weather and environment: Outdoor sessions depend on suitable weather and accessible natural spaces.

• Resource needs: Skilled facilitators and appropriate instruments or equipment are required.

• Individual differences: Not everyone may feel comfortable or benefit equally from outdoor music activities.

• Research gaps: More rigorous studies are needed to establish best practices and long-term effects.

  
  

Despite these challenges, the potential benefits make exploring this combined approach worthwhile.

!Close-up view of a natural pond with musical notes superimposed

Moving Forward with Combined Music and Nature Interventions

This review encourages mental health professionals, community organizers, and researchers to consider how music and nature can work together to support wellbeing. Designing programs that integrate these elements offers a creative way to address mental health challenges while connecting people to the outdoors and to each other.

For individuals, spending time outdoors while engaging with music—whether listening, playing, or singing—can be a simple, accessible way to boost mood and reduce stress. Communities can create spaces and opportunities for these activities to flourish.

The evidence suggests that combining music and nature is more than the sum of its parts. It opens new pathways for healing and wellbeing that deserve further attention and application.