Who are you and for what partner organisation do you work?
My name is Angel Dzhambov. I am an Associate professor and a Leading Researcher at Medical University of Plovdiv.
What is your expertise related to nature-based therapy?
I have not been involved in NbT per se, but I have conducted multiple observational studies on habitual exposure to nature in people’s living environment and their physical and mental health.
Can you describe the Case Study (CS) you lead in a couple of sentences?
I am leading CS3 which aims to follow 1 500 adults from the general population of Plovdiv, Bulgaria, for a period of about 12 months. The study will collect self-reported data on various facets of nature exposure and contact, psychological well-being, and resilience, as well as contextual and background data. In addition, we the study will link the survey data to objectively-measured indicators of exposure to natural outdoor environments. A subgroup of participants will undergo clinical laboratory tests for biochemical and immune system biomarkers.
What excites you most about the RESONATE project?
The opportunity to collaborate and learn from a truly transdisciplinary team of experts and push the NbTs agenda globally and in my country as a result of RESONATE.
What is your own favourite way to engage with nature for your health and wellbeing?
Spending time in my home garden or urban parks.
