Benessere su prescrizione: la rivoluzione della medicina arriva anche in Italia

23 July 2026

Un cambio di paradigma. E la natura?

For the first time in Italy, health officially encompasses relationships, physical activity and participation in community life.

The news, reported by Corriere della Sera, comes from Turin, where one of Italy’s first social prescribing projects has been launched.

Here, two family doctors, working alongside the local health authority, the University of Turin, District 8 and the cultural association Nessuno, have started prescribing their patients not only medication, but also activities such as yoga, walking groups, dance, reading, mindfulness, tai chi and creative workshops.

This model is already widely used in countries such as the United Kingdom and is recommended by the World Health Organization. Now, it is beginning to gain ground in Italy as well.

People who receive this special kind of “prescription” can take part free of charge in a programme designed to address anxiety, depression, loneliness, physical inactivity and social isolation.

The aim is not to replace conventional medical treatments, but to complement them with experiences that can improve mental and physical well-being while creating new social connections.

This initiative represents much more than a local project. It marks a cultural shift: health is no longer viewed simply as the absence of illness, but as a balance between the body, the mind and social relationships.

It is an innovative approach that places the individual, rather than just the condition, at the heart of healthcare.

What About Nature?

Reading this news, one question naturally arises: if yoga, reading and walking groups can be included in a medical prescription, how long will it be before experiences in nature are also recognised as an integral part of prevention and well-being?

For those who follow Donne di Montagna, this perspective is far from new.

For almost ten years, our community has accompanied thousands of women along mountain trails, creating opportunities to move, breathe, build new friendships and regain confidence in themselves.

What we have witnessed hundreds of times is now being increasingly supported by scientific research.

Numerous studies show that spending at least 120 minutes a week in nature is associated with better health and higher levels of perceived well-being.

Walking outdoors helps reduce stress, improves mood, supports better sleep and encourages a more active lifestyle.

The Mountains as an Ally for Our Health

We do not know whether doctors will one day be able to officially prescribe a mountain hike.

However, the direction now seems clear: prevention is becoming increasingly connected to movement, social interaction and contact with nature.

For us at Donne di Montagna, this news is above all a confirmation.

The mountains cannot replace medicine, but they can become one of its most valuable allies.

And perhaps the future of healthcare will begin with a simple prescription encouraging people to step outside and start moving again.