The Best Medicine: Prescriptions to Get Active and Enjoy Nature

“Would you consider a referral to an exercise program?” asked my eager new doctor who is replacing my family doctor of three decades. I agreed without hesitation.

I am no longer comfortable donning my exercise gear, walking into an unfamiliar facility, and working up a sweat by joining a cycle, yoga, or Zumba group of people nearly half my age; this might be exactly what I needed to step out of my comfort zone and get moving.

RxTGA: A Prescription to Get Active

It is becoming more commonplace for family physicians to prescribe an RxTGA – a prescription to get active. This initiative allows health care professionals in Canada to discuss the importance of exercise with their patients and grant them access to community recreation. With this prescription, patients are encouraged to find new options to get active and work towards a healthier lifestyle.

This prescription is provided after an initial scheduled meeting with an exercise specialist, which in my case was a kinesiology graduate with a major in adaptive physical activity. It can be redeemed for two free weeks at a partnering recreation facility. Given the opportunity and motivation to explore the benefits of physical exercise, this will hopefully lead patients to a regular exercise program.

You can learn more about RxTGA and find a prescriber in your area here.

Benefits of Physical Exercise

Physical exercise can improve your life immeasurably with the recommended minimum of 150 minutes per week. The Mayo Clinic lists seven benefits of exercise: weight control, prevention or management of health issues, mood improvement, energy boost, better sleep, improved sex life, and simply more fun.

For older adults, staying active not only helps maintain strength and mobility but it can also reduce the risk of falls and improve balance, making everyday tasks much easier and safer. Regular exercise keeps your mind sharp, boosts your mood, and gives you the energy you need to continue enjoying the activities you love – it is the key to aging gracefully!

PaRX: A Prescription for Nature

I was sufficiently impressed with my doctor’s referral – until I heard about PaRx! This park prescription is a doctor’s recommendation to spend time outdoors and can include details such as type of activity, frequency, duration, and location.

PaRx began as an initiative of the BC Parks Foundation but is now driven by health care professionals and available across Canada. It is consistent with traditional, Indigenous ways of knowing which include Natural or First Laws that view human and ecosystem health as deeply connected. The prescription may include an annual Parks Canada Discovery Pass which can give you access to more than 80 National Parks, historic sites, and conservation areas.

PaRX is meant to be lifelong – you can learn more about it here.

Health Benefits of Nature

Exercising in nature provides the added benefits of reduced stress responses, lowered blood pressure, and minimized symptoms of anxiety and depression. As a prescription for nature, PaRx requires a minimum of just two hours outdoors a week to reap the benefits. Exercise sessions should be at least 20 minutes in length.

A professional referral is required for PaRx and unfortunately, the program may not yet be available in your area. However, we can always self-prescribe! We can choose to spend at least a couple of hours a week outdoors in nature walking, biking, kayaking, skiing, snowshoeing, or whatever physical activity your heart desires. Always check with a health care professional if you have any concerns about your health, if you have not exercised for some time, and particularly if you have serious health issues such as arthritis, diabetes, or heart disease.

Incorporating more exercise and nature is proven to improve our physical and mental wellness – why not start reaping the benefits today?

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