A WALK in the park
After the hustle bustle of summer, take time out this fall to discover and enjoy the more
than 40 parks right here in Highland Park. Spending time in a park is a great way to
take a break from our overscheduled lives and reconnect with family, friends, and even
ourselves.
Research has shown that small nature spaces can directly benefit a person's physical and mental well-being, as well as
provide social advantages to communities. Nature spaces and parks can also reduce health service costs, among other
benefits, to a community by enabling more nature contact for residents. University of Washington, research scientist,
Kathleen L Wolf, Ph.D. explains “The Health Benefits of Small Parks and Green Spaces” in the April 2017
Parks & Recreation Magazine. Here is an excerpt from the article…
The Health Benefits of Small Parks and Green Spaces
Parks are emerging as important public health solutions in
urban communities. Nearly 40 years of research evidence
confirms that small nature spaces can directly benefit a
person's physical and mental well-being, as well as provide
social advantages to communities. Experiencing nature
has been proven to reduce stress, improve mood, increase
productivity, and avoid chronic diseases (such as diabetes,
heart disease and respiratory problems).
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Improved General Mood and Attitude
A study that compared meditative and athletic walking in
forest and indoor settings showed that in both environments
meditative walking generated more positive psychological
effects than athletic walking. Other investigators have found
evidence of lower frustration and increased brain activity,
resembling meditation, when moving in green space versus
being in retail and commercial areas that have no trees. Also,
meditative walking in the forest was the most effective at
increasing happiness, defined as the presence of a positive
emotional mindset. Psychologists know that being happy
broadens how a person thinks about and acts in the daily flow
of life’s efforts, creating positive intellectual and psychological
resources.
Park District of Highland Park • 847.831.3810 • pdhp.org