Unlocking Health with Nature: Insights from Dr. Melissa Sundermann
What role does nature play in our wellbeing? Join Lillian Liang Emlet on the Transforming Healthcare Coaching Podcast as she welcomes Dr. Melissa Sundermann, Medical Director of Lifestyle Medicine at Corwell Health System. Dr. Sundermann shares her journey of integrating outdoor activities into her daily routine and the scientific evidence supporting nature's profound benefits on the immune system, mental health, and more. Perfect for healthcare professionals, educators, and anyone interested in the intersection of nature and health. Discover practical tips to enhance your wellbeing with the power of nature.
00:00 Introduction to the Power of Nature
00:50 Meet Dr. Melissa Sundermann
01:24 Dr. Sunderman's Origin Story
03:00 The Impact of Nature on Health
06:19 Scientific Evidence Supporting Nature's Benefits
12:04 Practical Tips for Urban Dwellers
15:38 Nature in Healthcare Settings
21:39 Lifestyle Medicine and Nature Prescriptions
34:57 Future Directions and Upcoming Events
37:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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LinkedInBookArticles referenced in episode:
Sundermann et al. - Nature As Medicine https://doi.org/10.1177/15598276231174863
Forest bathing enhances NK activity https://doi.org/10.1177/03946320070200s202
Effect of forest bathing on immune function https://doi.org/10.1007/s12199-008-0068-3
Phytoncide effects on NK cell function https://doi.org/10.1177/039463200902200410
Antonelli et al. - Cortisol systematic review https://doi.org/10.1007/s00484-019-01717-x
Park et al. - Physiological effects
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12199-009-0086-9
Lee et al. - Young male subjects study https://doi.org/10.1016/j.puhe.2010.09.005
Hunter et al. - Micro-moments/salivary biomarkers https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00722
Van Hedger et al. - Cricket chirps vs car horns https://doi.org/10.31234/osf.io/f5hcz
White et al. - VR nature therapeutics https://doi.org/10.2147/ndt.s179038
Bratman et al. - Improved affect and cognition https://doi.org/10.1016/j.landurbplan.2015.02.005
White et al. - 120 minutes per week study https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-019-44097-3
Green Heart Louisville website https://www.greenheartlouisville.org/
ACLM Main Website https://www.lifestylemedicine.org
What is Lifestyle Medicine https://www.lifestylemedicine.org/ACLM/About/What_is_Lifestyle_Medicine/ACLM/About/What_is_Lifestyle_Medicine_.aspx
Six Pillars of Lifestyle Medicine https://www.lifestylemedicine.org/ACLM/Lifestyle_Medicine/Six_Pillars/ACLM/LifestyleMedicine/Six_Pillars_of_LM.aspx ACLM
Research & Evidence https://www.lifestylemedicine.org/ACLM/Education_Resources/Resources/Research/ACLM/Resources/Research.aspx
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Disclaimer: Although we are trained medical professionals, we are not acting in a clinical capacity on this podcast. We do not use our medical licenses or provide medical, mental health, or therapeutic services in this setting. The content shared in this episode is based on our personal experiences, opinions, and coaching backgrounds, and is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. It should not be taken as medical advice, therapy, or professional counseling, nor used as a substitute for individualized medical or mental health care. Always seek the guidance of qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns. The views and opinions expressed are solely those of the hosts and guests and do not represent the positions of our employers or affiliated organizations.