Benefits of Green Spaces
We all know the value of taking a walk in the fresh spring weather. It allows your mind to relax and forget about the problems in everyday life. Studies have commonly shown the benefits of being around green spaces, including gardens, urban parks and forests.
But did you know that being in contact with these natural surroundings during childhood could positively impact your mental health as an adult? A study by the Institute for Global Health surveyed 3,600 people from all over Europe.
The all-adult study gave participants a questionnaire (问卷) on how frequently they used natural spaces during childhood — for example, playing in a garden or riding a bike at the park. They were also asked about the importance they put on using such places. Volunteers were then given a psychological test, which included a variety of questionnaires and problem-solving activities, to analyze their nervousness and feelings of depression within a four-week period. The results consistently showed that the people who were more exposed to natural spaces had higher mental health scores compared to those with lower childhood exposure — as did those who attached higher importance to using green spaces. The study’s assistant, Wilma Smith, wrote that the results “show the importance of childhood exposure to natural spaces for the development of a nature-appreciating attitude and a healthy psychological state in adulthood”. She also stressed the importance of “recognizing the implications of growing up in environments with limited opportunities for exposure to nature”.
According to the study, 73 percent of Europe’s population only has limited access to natural spaces. So we call on policymakers to improve the availability of natural spaces for children.
While this study was based in Europe, a lack of green space can affect anyone, anywhere. So remember to make time to expose yourself to nature, as your mental health is just as important as the physical one.
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