Is nature exposure in autistic adults associated with more positive body image?

 

Introduction

The question of whether nature exposure in autistic adults is associated with more positive body image is underexplored in scientific literature. While no studies have directly tested this link in autistic adults, a growing body of research in the general population shows that spending time in nature is linked to greater body appreciation, reduced appearance-related anxiety, and improved self-acceptance. These benefits are often explained through mechanisms like connectedness to nature, restorative experiences, and autonomy in movement—factors that may be particularly meaningful for autistic individuals, who can experience unique sensory, cognitive, and social dynamics in their relationship with body image.

Potential Advantages of Nature Exposure for Autistic Adults’ Body Image

1. Promotes Embodied Self-Connection
   Nature often shifts attention from appearance to physical sensations—such as the feel of wind or the rhythm of walking—which can help individuals connect with their bodies in a non-judgmental way.

2. Reduces Social Comparison
   Outdoor environments typically reduce exposure to media and social settings that promote unrealistic body ideals, allowing more focus on function and comfort.

3. Enhances Mental Restoration
   Natural settings provide sensory regulation, lower stress levels, and reduce cognitive fatigue, all of which may indirectly support more positive self-perception.

4. Encourages Intrinsic Motivation for Activity
   Activities like hiking, gardening, or swimming in natural settings are often pursued for enjoyment rather than appearance-related goals, reinforcing body appreciation.

5. Supports Sensory Integration
   For some autistic adults, structured, calming natural environments can help integrate sensory experiences in ways that promote overall wellbeing.

Limitations & Gaps in the Evidence

1. Lack of Direct Research on Autistic Adults
   Current findings about nature and body image come from studies in neurotypical populations; the autistic experience may differ due to sensory sensitivities or environmental preferences.

2. Variability in Sensory Responses
   Not all nature environments are positive—crowded, noisy, or unpredictable outdoor spaces may increase anxiety or discomfort for some autistic individuals.

3. Body Image Complexity in Autism
   Autistic adults may face body image concerns related to co-occurring conditions, interoceptive differences, or social stigma, which may not be addressed solely by nature exposure.

4. Measurement Challenges
   Tools for assessing “body image” may not capture how autistic adults conceptualize body awareness and self-acceptance.

In-Depth Discussion

Research in general populations consistently shows a link between nature exposure and positive body image outcomes. For example:

• Martyn & Brymer (2016) found that being in natural environments shifts focus from appearance to physical functioning, fostering body appreciation.

• Swami et al. (2019) demonstrated that nature connectedness—a sense of belonging to and being part of the natural world—was a key mediator between nature exposure and body image improvements.

• Puertas-Molero et al. (2021) highlighted that autonomous motivation for physical activity in natural settings predicted stronger body appreciation across diverse demographics.

For autistic adults, these mechanisms may have special relevance:

• Sensory grounding: Many autistic individuals experience heightened or atypical sensory processing. Gentle natural settings—like quiet gardens or shaded trails—can offer predictable, calming sensory input.

• Reduced appearance pressure: Nature-based activities tend to de-emphasize appearance norms, which may relieve body image distress fueled by social expectations.

• Movement diversity: Activities in nature can be adapted for different abilities and preferences, avoiding competitive or appearance-focused fitness environments.

• Self-determined participation: Nature activities can be engaged with at one’s own pace, which supports autonomy—a key factor in both mental health and positive body image.

However, autistic experiences are heterogeneous. Some may find sensory elements of nature—such as bright light, strong smells, or insect sounds—overwhelming. Others might require accessibility adaptations to fully participate in outdoor activities. This means that while the theoretical and indirect evidence supports the idea that nature exposure could foster positive body image in autistic adults, targeted, autism-specific research is still needed.