Webinar: Harnessing the Therapeutic Benefit of the Great Outdoors by Dr Melissa Sundermann

Join Dr. Melissa Sundermann—Lifestyle Medicine physician, endurance athlete, and “Doctor Outdoors”—as she presents the latest scientific evidence on the role of nature in clinical health outcomes.

This session will explore how exposure to green and blue spaces is associated with measurable improvements in stress reduction, cardiovascular health, immune function, and longevity. Dr. Sundermann will guide participants through the practical integration of nature-based interventions, such as green exercise and outdoor mindfulness, into patient care plans within the Lifestyle Medicine framework.

You will gain the skills to:

• Describe the physiological and psychological benefits of regular nature exposure, supported by current clinical evidence.

• Incorporate evidence-based nature interventions into personalized patient management.

• Develop tailored “nature prescriptions” that consider patient health objectives, social determinants, and environmental access.
  

Join us to discover why reconnecting with the outdoors isn’t just a lifestyle choice—it’s a prescription for a healthier future.

Recording of this talk after the event is available only for SGLM members.

About the Speaker:

Dr. Melissa Sundermann , DO, FACOI, DipABLM, FACLM Dr. Melissa Sundermann is a double board-certified physician in Internal Medicine and Lifestyle Medicine with over 25 years of experience in medical practice. She has advanced training in

Integrative Medicine from the University of Michigan and has completed a Professional Training Program in Mind-Body Medicine through the Center for Mind-Body Medicine. Dr. Sundermann believes in a holistic, patient-centered approach, empowering individuals to heal through self-care and the pillars of Lifestyle Medicine. Widely recognized as “Doctor Outdoors,” she is a leading expert in Nature as Medicine and serves as the Founding Chair of the Nature as Medicine subcommittee for the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. She is also the Chair of the Global Wellness Institute’s Lifestyle Medicine Initiative, where she works to expand global awareness of evidence-based lifestyle interventions.

Currently, Dr. Sundermann is the Medical Director of Lifestyle Medicine for Corewell Health

System. Previously, she specialized in Longevity and Lifestyle Medicine with Lifespan Medicine

and Canyon Ranch Wellness Resort. In addition to her clinical work, she is the co-founder of

REVIVE! Lifestyle Medicine Well-Being Coaching and Retreats, and contributes educational

content to several leading health and wellness organizations.

A lifelong outdoor enthusiast, Dr. Sundermann finds inspiration and healing in running, biking,

hiking, skiing, and immersing herself in nature. She is a 12-time Boston Marathon finisher, a 3-

time Full Ironman Triathlon finisher, and is currently training for upcoming ultramarathons. She

firmly believes that “age is not your cage” and is dedicated to helping others cultivate vitality,

resilience, and joy at every stage of life. Linkedin | Website Instagram: @motivatormelissa

Instagram: @thedoctoroutdoors

YouTube: @thedoctoroutdoors

TikTok: @thedoctoroutdoors