Facilitating students’ connection with nature in university green spaces: differences between guided and unguided immersion experiences

Patricio Aguilar; Alfo Puppo-Stuardo; Fiamma Solari; Luz Maria de la Fuente; Rosanna Ginocchio

Abstract 

Immersion experiences in nature are increasingly recognized as beneficial for mental health; however, the type of connection they foster, particularly in urban contexts, remains unclear. This study evaluated the effects of guided and unguided nature immersion in a university green space on university students’ connection with nature (CN). Forty-two students participated in eight sessions over two months and were assigned to a guided group (n = 14), an unguided group (n = 14), or a control group (n = 14). CN was assessed using the Connectedness to Nature Scale (CNS), and qualitative methods were employed to analyze participants’ reflective responses. Both immersion treatments significantly increased CN levels; however, no significant differences were found between guided and unguided conditions. Qualitative findings revealed distinct experiential patterns: guided immersion promoted continuous, multisensory engagement and elicited complex, symbolic emotional processes; unguided immersion generated more intermittent interaction and simpler emotional responses. These results highlight that while both formats can enhance CN, guidance influences the depth and meaning-making of the experience, particularly in stimulating emotional openness and reflective engagement. The study underscores the value of designing urban nature interventions that facilitate meaningful interaction with natural elements to strengthen emotional and cognitive bonds with nature, especially in densely built environments.

Keywords: Forest bathing; Nature-based solutions; Emotional engagement; Urban green spaces; College students

Cómo citar: Aguilar, P., Puppo-Stuardo, A., Solari, F., de la Fuente, L. M., & Ginocchio, R. (2026). Facilitating students’ connection with nature in university green spaces: The role of guided immersion in shaping emotional and symbolic engagement. Wellbeing, Space and

Society, 10, 100340. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.wss.2025.100340

Aguilar et al_Facilitating students’ connection.pdf

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