Natural Connections
Natural Connections is a nature-based well-being initiative that integrates ecotherapy principles, adventure-based recreation, and experiential learning to support student mental health and personal growth led by University Counseling Center, Campus Recreation, and Student Health Services. Through intentional experiences in nature, students can build resilience, strengthen relationships and communication skills, increase self-esteem, develop emotion regulation strategies, and enhance their overall well-being.
Natural Connections includes a variety of experiences, such as outdoor recreation activities, skill-building workshops, ecotherapy-based services, and guided experiential programs. Some programs are open to all students and focus on learning new recreation skills, connecting with peers, and fostering well-being through shared outdoor experiences. Other programs provide clinically focused, nature-based therapeutic interventions facilitated by University Counseling Center clinicians for students receiving counseling services.
Whether participating in a recreational outing, an educational workshop, or a therapeutic nature-based experience, every Natural Connections program is designed to promote holistic well-being by helping students connect with themselves, others, and the natural world. To Learn more or to register for Natural Connections students can do that through the Campus Recreation Member Portal.
Nature as Self-Care
Nature as Self Care consists of self-guided resources and established programming from the UCC, Campus Recreation, and the Stress-Free Zone. Nature as Self Care provides scaffolding opportunities for students interested in fostering personal growth and resilience and will help them connect with both their natural environment and established campus resources. Nature as Self-Care will include the following activities:
Self-Paced Activities
- Panther Walking Route
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The Panther Walking Route is designed to boost your well-being and physical activity, and to learn more about the Pittsburgh campus. The Panther Walking Route includes 10 stops throughout the Pittsburgh campus. Each stop includes a sign with a QR code to scan to learn more about the stop, why you're there, and some fun facts about sustainability initiatives and opportunities to improve your wellness here at Pitt! Each stop provides opportunities to engage in mindfulness activities and one-minute fitness routines.
- Tree Trek Thoughts
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The Campus Tree Trek is a route that has 17 trees equipped with educational signage to help you learn more about the trees on campus, as well as engage in self-reflection that promotes personal wellness and growth. The Campus Tree Trek highlights the beauty of trees on the University of Pittsburgh’s Pittsburgh campus. The Campus Tree Trek is an approximately one-mile route that showcases various tree species around campus and provides reflection questions that help you engage in Tree Trek Thoughts. You can start the trek at any tree along the route, just look for the educational signs and scan the QR code to get your thoughts flowing.
Group Therapy
Nature Rx for Anxiety integrates DBT, ACT, Attention Restoration Theory, and Positive Psychology to support students in navigating anxiety and emotional distress through nature-based practices. Participants will engage in mindfulness, grounding, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness skills, using nature as a therapeutic tool to build resilience. Each session blends psychoeducation, experiential learning, and group reflection, offering a supportive space for growth. By the end, students will leave with a personalized nature-based wellness plan to sustain long-term well-being and acceptance of distressing thoughts and emotions.