# Wondering Awe Is the Mediator of the Link Between Experience of Nature and Psychological Wellbeing—Relevance for Public Health

## TL;DR

Spending time in nature improves wellbeing, but only when it inspires awe and gratitude, which suggests that mindful experiences in green spaces are key for public health.

## Contribution

This study identifies awe and gratitude as the key mediators linking nature experiences to psychological wellbeing.

## Key findings

- Experience of Nature and Nature-Relatedness are strongly linked to Awe/Gratitude.
- Awe/Gratitude significantly mediates the relationship between Nature Experience and Wellbeing.
- Awe/Gratitude is the best predictor of Wellbeing, followed by Gratitude disposition and outdoor sports.

## Abstract

Background: Access to green spaces is crucial for public health. For psychological health, the ability to pause in fascination or wondering awe (as an indicator of mindful resonance with nature) appears particularly relevant. However, it remains unclear whether non-interventional experience of nature is directly related to wellbeing or requires a mediator. Methods: A cross-sectional anonymous survey was conducted among 491 participants (74% women; mean age 51 ± 13 years) with standardized instruments (NR-6, ENS, GrAw-7, GQ-6, WHO-5). Results: Experience of Nature (r = 0.56) and Nature-Relatedness (r = 0.55) are strongly associated with Awe/Gratitude, while only Awe/Gratitude is moderately related to Wellbeing (r = 0.42). Mediator analyses revealed that the relationship between Experience of Nature and Wellbeing is significantly mediated by Awe/Gratitude (β = 2.28, p < 0.001). This highlights the central role of this resource through which nature experiences promote wellbeing. Regression analyses confirmed Awe/Gratitude as the best predictor of Wellbeing, followed by Gratitude disposition, and sporting outside (R2 = 0.25). Conclusions: Merely being in nature does not substantially affect well-being. Rather, mindful perception of nature as a space where modern public health practices, such as mindful walking, are particularly effective, is essential. From a public health and urban planning perspective, accessible, quiet, and aesthetically engaging green spaces that attract and fascinate people should be prioritized to foster such restorative experiences.