Nature Connectedness in Eating Disorder Recovery with Mia Morgan

In this week's podcast, Han is joined by Mia Morgan. Mia is a final-year PhD candidate at the University of Derby, researching how nature connectedness can benefit people with disordered eating. Her project involves developing the first nature-based intervention tailored to this group, in collaboration with those with lived experience. With a background in psychology and experience as a support worker on an eating disorder inpatient ward, Mia is passionate about creating accessible, holistic interventions, especially harnessing the power of nature for mental health.

This week, we discuss:

• Mia’s inspiration for focusing her PhD project on eating disorders and nature-based interventions.
• The definition of “nature-connectedness” and how spending time in nature impacts our mental health.
• Exploring the 5 pathways to nature connectedness: the 5 senses, beauty, emotion, compassion and meaning.
• The role of caring for nature to motivate purpose, create responsibility and develop meaning.
• The accessibility of nature and examples of how to tune into nature each day for emotional regulation.
• The role of nature on positive body image.

To reach out to Mia about her study or taking part, you can find her on X (@miamorgan1997) or LinkedIn (Mia Morgan).

Please note that this podcast explores topics some individuals may find difficult to hear and should not be used as a replacement for professional advice. If you need further support after this podcast, please consider talking to someone you trust. You may also wish to reach out to your GP or mental health professional.

We've included a list of additional support options in case you need them:

Samaritans are here for whatever you are going through. You can call free any time, from any phone, on 116 123.

FirstSteps Eating Disorders is an eating disorders charity for children and their families, young people, and adults affected by eating difficulties and disorders. You can call them on or email info@firststepsed.co.uk.

Beat Eating Disorders is an eating disorder charity offering support for those with or supporting someone with an eating disorder. You can call their helpline for free on 0808 801 0677 (England), 0808 801 0432 (Scotland), 0808 801 0433 (Wales), 0808 801 0434 (Northern Ireland).