11/22/2018 / By RJ Jhonson
A study finally confirms what many have suspected all along – living close to nature is good for your health. The study, written by researchers from the University of East Anglia, links exposure to green spaces to lower risks of serious diseases, stress, and premature death.
In the study, the term “green space” pertains to an “open, undeveloped land with natural vegetation,” as well as urban spaces with plants, such as parks and street greenery. To arrive at their conclusion, the authors reviewed 103 observational studies and 40 interventional studies covering around 100 health outcomes.
Their findings suggest that living close to green spaces result in the following outcomes:
The researchers admitted that they have yet to determine the exact reason behind the positive effects of green spaces on human health, but that the outcomes could come from a number of factors.
“People living near greenspace likely have more opportunities for physical activity and socializing. Meanwhile, exposure to a diverse variety of bacteria present in natural areas may also have benefits for the immune system and reduce inflammation,” says lead author Caoimhe Twohig-Bennett.
These findings call to mind the result of a Japanese study that investigated the health benefits of Shinrin yoku or “forest bathing,” which many people in Japan practice. The authors of this study attributed the effects to the release of phytoncides or antibacterial compounds by trees in the vicinity.
The authors hope that their findings would urge doctors and other healthcare professionals to encourage their patients to spend more time in green spaces to improve their health.
The study was published in the journal Environmental Research.
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