The Center for Health & Nature is a collaborative initiative of Houston Methodist and Texas A&M Health dedicated to understanding how nature influences human health and translating that knowledge into healthier people, places, and communities.
CHN is built on collaboration across disciplines, institutions, and communities. Our diverse network of researchers, healthcare professionals, students, designers, and partners brings different perspectives to a shared goal: strengthening the connection between people, nature, and health.
To advance the science of nature and human health through interdisciplinary research, education, and collaboration. We translate evidence into practical approaches that integrate nature into healthcare, communities, and everyday life.
To advance the science of nature and human health through interdisciplinary research, education, and collaboration. We translate evidence into practical approaches that integrate nature into healthcare, communities, and everyday life.
Ideas, Latest News & Updates
CENTER FOR HEALTH & NATURE RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM
Advancing Health and Nature Research, Practice, and Impact.
October 9, 2026 · TMC-3 Helix Park
The Center for Health & Nature Research Symposium will bring together researchers, healthcare professionals, practitioners, and community and cross-sector partners to explore the growing evidence linking nature and human health. The symposium will address the gap between emerging research and its application in clinical, community, and public health settings by highlighting current research, evidence-based interventions, and examples of how to translate nature-health research into practice.
Past Conferences: 2025 | 2024 | 2021 (Virtual)
2020 (Keynote only)
New national survey highlights a growing nature gap and an opportunity for healthcare.
CHN Director Jay Maddock discusses what the findings could mean for health and healthcare.
September 1, 2026 · Texas A&M Stories
New CHN research highlights why greenspace use not simply availability may matter for mental health.
CHN research fellow Sarayu Mouli discusses what study could mean for improving access to and use of nature across Greater Houston.
September 8, 2026 · Kinder Institute
REI Co-op and the Nature & Health Alliance launch a new effort to track how Americans experience and engage with nature.
REI Co-op and the Nature & Health Alliance announced the launch of the American Nature & Health Survey, a new national tool to better understand Americans’ relationship with nature.
September 2026 · Nature & Health Alliance
Studies & Publications
Collaborators and Partners
Projects & Initiatives
The Center for Health & Nature is a partnership between Houston Methodist Hospital, Texan by Nature, and Texas A&M Health. It is the only collaboration in the world of a health system, a conservation foundation, and a university to advance our understanding of nature as a health system. Each partner brings unique perspective and expertise to the Center.