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This meta-synthesis examines the practice of talking therapy in natural outdoor spaces, synthesizing insights from 38 articles with 322 practitioners and 163 clients. It highlights the benefits of nature, such as reduced stress and improved mood, and proposes a framework for best practices. Key themes include individualized client assessment, the therapeutic advantages of mutuality and freedom, and the importance of risk management and informed consent. The study emphasizes the enrichment of therapy through holistic integration and improved practitioner well-being, advocating for the inclusion of nature in therapeutic practices as a potentially more effective alternative to conventional indoor therapy.

This editorial introduces a special issue of the International Journal of Play, offering multidisciplinary perspectives on adult play and playfulness. It highlights eight original contributions and two comments, exploring topics such as the evolutionary benefits of playfulness, cultural transmission of play, playful learning in higher education, and the impact of play on creativity and urban design. The issue also addresses the role of play in psychiatry and conceptualizes BDSM as a form of adult play. The aim is to stimulate further research into the diverse applications and benefits of playfulness in adult life.

This dissertation investigates the relationship between connectedness to nature, spirituality, and psychological well-being. Utilizing the Connectedness to Nature Scale (CNS) and Nature Relatedness Scale (NRS), the study measures individuals' connection to nature and its impact on well-being, assessed through the Connor-Davidson Resiliency Scale (CD-RISC) and the Scales of Psychological Well-Being (SPWB). Findings indicate a significant correlation between nature connectedness and well-being, with spirituality playing a mediating role. The study underscores the mental health benefits of a strong nature connection and highlights the importance of spirituality in enhancing psychological resilience and well-being. Implications for integrating nature into therapeutic practices are discussed, offering valuable insights for clinicians and counseling educators.

This report, developed by UMKC's RN-BSN students in collaboration with the Berkley Child and Family Development Center, highlights the crucial role of outdoor play in children's brain development. It discusses the cognitive, physical, social, and emotional benefits of outdoor activities for children from infancy through school age. Emphasizing experiential learning, the report provides practical ideas for incorporating outdoor play at home and underscores the importance of recess in schools. It also addresses barriers to outdoor play and advocates for more opportunities for children to engage in unstructured, outdoor activities.