Impact of the natural environment on human well-being – a narrative review

Regardless of the advancement of civilization, humanity remains a part of nature and can derive various benefits from this coexistence. Numerous studies prove that contact with living nature affects human mental and physical stability. Systematic exposure to nature has been shown to be an excellent prophylaxis for mood and cognitive disorders, as well as protecting against the development of civilization diseases and improving physical fitness. Exposure to the natural environment also has a positive effect on immunity and optimizes responses to stress or pain. Contact with nature can be realized in many ways - being in the woods, walking in the park and around flowerbeds, gardening, including touching plants, or contemplating landscapes. The purpose of this paper is to present selected studies showing the positive impact of nature on human well-being regardless of their age, as well as to promote various beneficial forms of exposure to the natural environment. The presented research justifies the inclusion of green areas in urban planning. Med Pr Work Health Saf. 2025;76(4):341-346.