How greener spaces can help boost mental health

Just taking a walk in a park or smelling a bunch of tulips in your backyard can boost your well-being and soothe your mind.

Due to the ever-increasing rate of urbanisation and industrialisation, a large chunk of the world’s population now lives in cities. According to World Health Organisation, mental disorders have affected more than 450 million people across the globe. 

Recent research states that children who grow up around greener surroundings have up to 55 per cent lower risk of developing mental health issues later in life.

“Physical inactivity, linked to poor walkability and lack of access to recreational areas, accounts for 3.3% of global deaths,” WHO states, adding, “Green spaces are important to mental health. Having access to green spaces can reduce health inequalities, improve well-being, and aid in the treatment of mental illness. Some analysis suggests that physical activity in a natural environment can help remedy mild depression and reduce physiological stress indicators.”

Dr Madhusudan Singh Solanki, senior consultant psychiatrist, department of mental health and behavioural sciences, Max Hospital, says, “Living and working close to nature enhances the sense of well-being. Studies have shown that it improves mood, reduces stress and increases productivity by improving mental health.”

“Greener space are not only a smart investment from the environment point of view but also from mental health point of view and the consequent increase in productivity due to better health will eventually translate into financial gains for the organisations,” he adds.

The secret to boost your self-esteem and reduce stress is through taking part in recreational activities around green spaces. Playing a sport like football or badminton can be of major help in not only enhancing mental health but improving physical fitness as well. Apart from that, taking a walk or simply performing breathing exercises is a huge help.

If you’re open to more adventurous activities, going on a trek, mountain biking or surfing can bring a new freshness and a break from the mundane life routines.

Planning to buy or construct a house? Creating a green space design for your children will be an added investment for their health and happiness in the future. What’s more, it will be a great contribution to the enhancing the quality of environment too.

Instead of moving back to the countryside, isn’t it time to create a healthy lifestyle with green spaces in the cities itself?