Nature-based experiences and health of cancer survivors

• Nature-based experiences act as an effective strategy for promotion of cancer survivor health and well-being.
• Dragon boat racing may enhance breast cancer survivor quality of life.
• Natural environment may counteract attentional fatigue in newly diagnosed breast cancer survivors.
• Adventure programs provide a positive experience for children and adolescent survivors, fostering a sense of belonging.
• Therapeutic landscapes may decrease state-anxiety, improving survivor health.

PurposeAlthough exposure to, and interaction with, natural environments are recognized as health-promoting, little is understood about the use of nature contact in treatment and rehabilitation for cancer survivors.MethodsThis narrative review summarizes the literature exploring the influence of nature-based experiences on survivor health. Key databases included CINAHL, EMBASE, Medline, Web of Science, PubMed, PsycArticles, ProQuest, and Cancerlit databases.ResultsSixteen articles met inclusion criteria and were reviewed. Four major categories emerged: 1) Dragon boat racing may enhance breast cancer survivor quality of life, 2) Natural environment may counteract attentional fatigue in newly diagnosed breast cancer survivors, 3) Adventure programs provide a positive experience for children and adolescent survivors, fostering a sense of belonging and self-esteem, and 4) Therapeutic landscapes may decrease state-anxiety, improving survivor health.ConclusionsThis review contributes to a better understanding of the therapeutic effects of nature-based experiences on cancer survivor health, providing a point of entry for future study.