IELTS Reading Practice: How to Promote Mental Health Through Nature Therapy

The IELTS Reading section is a crucial component of the test, assessing your ability to comprehend complex texts and extract relevant information. Today, we’ll focus on a topic that has gained significant attention in recent years: “How To Promote Mental Health Through Nature Therapy.” This subject has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS exams, reflecting its growing importance in modern society. Based on current trends and the rising awareness of mental health issues, it’s highly likely that similar themes will continue to appear in future IELTS tests.

Nature therapy for mental health

Let’s dive into a practice reading passage and questions to help you prepare for this type of content in your IELTS exam.

Reading Passage

The Healing Power of Nature: Promoting Mental Health Through Nature Therapy

A. In an era dominated by technology and urban living, the concept of nature therapy, also known as ecotherapy or green therapy, has emerged as a powerful tool for promoting mental health. This approach harnesses the healing properties of the natural world to alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression, while fostering overall psychological well-being. As researchers delve deeper into the relationship between nature and mental health, the evidence supporting the efficacy of nature therapy continues to grow.

B. At its core, nature therapy involves intentional exposure to natural environments and engaging in activities that connect individuals with the outdoors. This can range from simple practices like taking a walk in a park or gardening to more immersive experiences such as forest bathing or wilderness therapy programs. The underlying principle is that regular interaction with nature can have profound positive effects on mental health, offering a counterbalance to the often overwhelming demands of modern life.

C. One of the key mechanisms through which nature therapy promotes mental health is stress reduction. Numerous studies have shown that spending time in natural settings can lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. This reduction in stress hormones is often accompanied by a decrease in heart rate and blood pressure, contributing to an overall sense of calm and relaxation. Moreover, the sensory experience of being in nature – the sights, sounds, and smells of the outdoors – can act as a form of mindfulness, helping individuals to focus on the present moment and temporarily disconnect from worries and ruminations.

D. Beyond stress reduction, nature therapy has been found to have a significant impact on mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. Exposure to green spaces and natural light can boost serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in regulating mood. Additionally, the physical activity often associated with outdoor experiences, whether it’s hiking, gardening, or simply walking, can stimulate the production of endorphins, the body’s natural mood elevators. This combination of biochemical changes and physical activity can lead to improved mood, increased energy levels, and a greater sense of well-being.

E. Nature therapy also offers unique opportunities for social connection and community building, aspects that are vital for mental health. Group activities in natural settings, such as community gardening projects or outdoor exercise classes, can foster a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of isolation. These social interactions, combined with the shared experience of being in nature, can strengthen social bonds and provide valuable support networks for individuals struggling with mental health issues.

F. The cognitive benefits of nature therapy are equally impressive. Research has shown that time spent in nature can improve attention span, increase creativity, and enhance problem-solving skills. The theory of Attention Restoration suggests that natural environments allow our directed attention to rest, reducing mental fatigue and improving cognitive function. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with attention deficit disorders or those experiencing burnout from work or academic pressures.

G. As the evidence for the mental health benefits of nature therapy continues to mount, healthcare professionals and policymakers are increasingly recognizing its potential as a complementary treatment for various mental health conditions. Some countries have even begun to implement “green prescriptions,” where doctors recommend nature-based activities as part of a holistic approach to mental health care. These initiatives not only highlight the growing acceptance of nature therapy but also underscore the importance of preserving and creating accessible green spaces in urban environments.

H. While nature therapy offers numerous benefits, it’s important to note that it is not a standalone solution for all mental health issues. Rather, it should be viewed as a valuable component of a comprehensive approach to mental well-being, often used in conjunction with traditional therapies and treatments. The key lies in finding ways to incorporate regular contact with nature into daily life, whether through brief outdoor breaks during the workday, weekend hikes, or dedicated nature therapy programs.

I. As we continue to navigate the challenges of modern life, the role of nature in promoting mental health cannot be overstated. By reconnecting with the natural world, individuals can tap into a powerful source of healing, resilience, and renewal. The growing body of research on nature therapy not only validates age-old intuitions about the restorative power of nature but also provides a compelling argument for integrating green spaces and nature-based activities into our healthcare systems, urban planning, and personal wellness routines. In doing so, we can harness the healing power of nature to foster healthier, happier, and more balanced lives.

Questions

True/False/Not Given

Do the following statements agree with the information given in the reading passage? Write

TRUE if the statement agrees with the information
FALSE if the statement contradicts the information
NOT GIVEN if there is no information on this

1. Nature therapy is a modern concept that has only recently been developed.
2. Forest bathing is considered a more immersive form of nature therapy than taking a walk in a park.
3. Exposure to natural environments has been proven to increase cortisol levels in the body.
4. Green prescriptions are now universally accepted by medical professionals worldwide.
5. Nature therapy is recommended as a complete replacement for traditional mental health treatments.

Matching Headings

Match the following headings with the correct paragraphs (A-I) in the passage. Write the correct letter A-I in boxes 6-10 on your answer sheet.

6. The multifaceted benefits of engaging with nature
7. Integrating nature therapy into healthcare systems
8. The impact of nature on cognitive abilities
9. Nature’s role in combating mood disorders
10. The importance of social aspects in nature therapy

Multiple Choice

Choose the correct letter, A, B, C, or D.

11. According to the passage, which of the following is NOT mentioned as a benefit of nature therapy?
    A) Reduced stress levels
    B) Improved cognitive function
    C) Enhanced physical fitness
    D) Increased social connections

12. The passage suggests that the sensory experience of being in nature:
    A) Can be overwhelming for some individuals
    B) Acts as a form of mindfulness
    C) Is most effective in wilderness settings
    D) Requires specialized training to appreciate fully

13. Which of the following best describes the author’s view on the role of nature therapy in mental health treatment?
    A) It should replace all other forms of therapy
    B) It is a valuable complement to traditional treatments
    C) It is only effective for mild mental health issues
    D) It is too new to be considered a reliable treatment option

Sentence Completion

Complete the sentences below using NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS from the passage for each answer.

14. The theory of ___ suggests that natural environments allow our directed attention to rest.
15. Some countries have begun implementing ___ where doctors recommend nature-based activities for mental health care.

Answer Key

1. FALSE – The passage states that nature therapy has “emerged” as a tool, implying it’s not an entirely new concept.
2. TRUE – The passage mentions forest bathing as a “more immersive” experience compared to taking a walk in a park.
3. FALSE – The passage states that spending time in nature lowers cortisol levels, not increases them.
4. NOT GIVEN – While green prescriptions are mentioned, their universal acceptance is not discussed.
5. FALSE – The passage explicitly states that nature therapy should not be viewed as a standalone solution.
6. A – Paragraph A introduces the concept and various benefits of nature therapy.
7. G – Paragraph G discusses the integration of nature therapy into healthcare systems and policies.
8. F – Paragraph F focuses on the cognitive benefits of nature therapy.
9. D – Paragraph D discusses the impact of nature therapy on mood disorders like depression and anxiety.
10. E – Paragraph E emphasizes the social aspects and community building opportunities in nature therapy.
11. C – While physical activity is mentioned, enhanced physical fitness is not explicitly stated as a benefit.
12. B – The passage states that the sensory experience of nature “can act as a form of mindfulness.”
13. B – The author describes nature therapy as “a valuable component of a comprehensive approach,” suggesting it complements traditional treatments.
14. Attention Restoration
15. green prescriptions

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overlooking specific details: In questions like True/False/Not Given, pay close attention to the exact wording in the passage.
2. Rushing through the text: Take time to understand the main idea of each paragraph, especially for matching heading questions.
3. Relying on prior knowledge: Base your answers solely on the information provided in the passage, not on external knowledge.
4. Misinterpreting complex sentences: Break down long sentences to fully comprehend their meaning.
5. Ignoring context: Consider the overall context when answering questions, especially for multiple-choice questions.

Vocabulary

• Ecotherapy (noun) – /ˈiːkəʊˌθerəpi/ – a type of therapeutic treatment which involves doing outdoor activities in nature
• Immersive (adjective) – /ɪˈmɜːsɪv/ – providing, involving, or characterized by deep absorption or immersion in something
• Cortisol (noun) – /ˈkɔːtɪsɒl/ – a steroid hormone released in response to stress
• Neurotransmitter (noun) – /ˌnjʊərəʊtrænzˈmɪtə(r)/ – a chemical substance that transmits nerve impulses across a synapse
• Holistic (adjective) – /həˈlɪstɪk/ – characterized by the treatment of the whole person, taking into account mental and social factors, rather than just the symptoms of a disease

Grammar Focus

Pay attention to the use of present perfect tense in the passage, such as:

“As researchers have delved deeper into the relationship between nature and mental health, the evidence supporting the efficacy of nature therapy has continued to grow.”

This tense is used to describe actions that started in the past and continue to have relevance in the present. It’s commonly used in academic writing to discuss ongoing research or recent developments.

Tips for IELTS Reading Success

1. Practice active reading: Engage with the text by highlighting key points and making mental summaries as you read.
2. Improve your time management: Allocate your time wisely among the different question types and passages.
3. Expand your vocabulary: Regularly learn new words and their contextual usage to improve comprehension.
4. Develop skimming and scanning skills: These techniques will help you locate specific information quickly.
5. Read a variety of texts: Expose yourself to different topics and writing styles to prepare for the diverse content in IELTS.

Remember, success in IELTS Reading comes with consistent practice and a strategic approach. By familiarizing yourself with various question types and developing effective reading techniques, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any topic that appears in your exam, including complex subjects like mental health and nature therapy.

For more practice on IELTS Reading and other IELTS topics, check out our related articles:

• How to Support Mental Health in the Digital Age
• The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health in Young Adults
• How to Promote Mental Health Through Art Therapy

Keep practicing, stay focused, and remember that improving your reading skills will benefit you not only in the IELTS exam but in your academic and professional life as well. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!