Researchers from the University of Essex found that as little as five minutes of a "green activity" can boost mood and self esteem. Jules Pretty and Jo Barton, who led this study, looked at data from 1,252 people of different ages, genders and mental health status taken from 10 existing studies in Britain.
They analyzed "green activities" such as walking, gardening, cycling, fishing, boating, horse-riding and farming. They found that the greatest health changes occurred in the young and the mentally ill, although people of all ages and social groups benefited.
All natural environments were beneficial, including parks in towns or cities, they said, but green areas with water appeared to have a more positive effect.
Dr. Wong enjoying a spring stroll through the Portland Japanese Garden
Portland Japanese Garden
May is Mental Health month and these are all great activities to do during May and throughout the year!
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Thank you for posting these findings. I find "green activity" to be an essential part of my ongoing recovery process.
ReplyDeleteI wonder if even the elderly or infirm can benefit from "green exercise" time by arranging the home with houseplants and tending to their care.