What’s included in the Natural Spaces & Mental Health lesson?

The lesson includes discussion questions, vocabulary matching and gap-fill, a video activity with real-world studies, and speaking practice using nature-related expressions.

Why should I choose this lesson?

It blends science, wellness, and language learning. It encourages real-world application and reflection, includes a video to support understanding, and can be used online or in-person.

06 April 2025

B1-B2

VIDEO LESSON

FREE LESSON

Natural Spaces & Mental Health

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Lesson Description

What is this lesson about?

This free nature ESL lesson plan is designed for intermediate learners (B1–B2) who want to explore the mental health benefits of spending time outdoors.
Students learn about forest bathing, volunteering in nature, and exercising in green spaces while building their English vocabulary and communication skills.
The lesson is based on real-world research and a WWF video on The Benefits of Nature for Mental Health, linking environmental awareness to emotional wellbeing.

How do students learn the new language?

Learners progress through a reflective, communicative sequence:

Warm-up discussions on nature and wellbeing.
Vocabulary activities introducing mindfulness and nature-based expressions.
Authentic video listening and comprehension from the WWF.
Fluency practice using phrases like tune into your senses and recharge your batteries.
Reflection and creative writing tasks connecting the topic to real life.

Why is this lesson useful?

By the end of the session, students can:

Talk confidently about nature and mental health in English.
Use new vocabulary to describe outdoor and emotional experiences.
Discuss scientific findings in clear, accessible English.
Reflect on how time in nature supports personal wellbeing.

What makes this lesson special?

Unlike traditional ESL lessons that focus only on describing the natural world, this one blends language learning with wellbeing and environmental awareness.
It encourages learners to connect with their surroundings, manage stress, and express ideas about mental health and mindfulness through authentic communication.

Who is it for?

Perfect for adult learners at B1–B2 level and teachers who want to combine English practice with wellbeing education, sustainability, and real-world topics.

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Read our blog post about Natural Spaces & Mental Health.

Updated: 17/10/2025