Why walking in a park is better than walking on a treadmill

We underestimate the power of mother nature. Most of us live in cities where fresh air is a luxury we can t afford. A new study reinforces the benefits of nature to humans. It highlights how connecting with nature on an everyday basis will result in a better life in the future.

Connecting with the green and blue spaces promotes feelings of renewal, restoration and spiritual connectedness. Natural environment enhances our physical, mental and spiritual healing. Here s how sounds of nature can boost productivity in office.

What did the study say?

Published in the journal Health and Place, the study showed that by incorporating smaller features, like a koi pond or a bench with a view of flowers, public health and urban development strategies can optimise nature as a health resource for older adults.

We zoomed into everyday life for seniors between the ages of 65 and 86. We discovered how a relatively mundane experience, such as hearing the sound of water or a bee buzzing among flowers, can have a tremendous impact on overall health, said lead author Jessica Finlay, a former research assistant on the project from the University of Minnesota.

Many people overcome barriers like a chronic illness, disability and progressing old age by connecting with green and blue spaces. While younger generations may use green and blue spaces more to unwind, the participants used nature to be active physically, spiritually and socially in later life. Read: Easy yoga poses for senior citizens and beginners

Accessibility to everyday green and blue spaces encourages seniors to simply get out the door. This in turn motivates them to be active physically, spiritually and socially, which can offset chronic illness, disability and isolation, Finlay said.

Natural environments enable older adults to uphold daily structure in retirement and provide opportunities for diverse activities outside the home. This is important to quality of later life by decreasing boredom, isolation and loneliness, as well as boosting one s sense of purpose and accomplishment. Read: Technology improves senior citizens health by reducing their loneliness

This research is more than anecdotal; it gives credence to some small but significant elements of every day later life. Hopefully, it will help urban planners and developers build communities that span a lifetime. Here s why people are working out in parks instead of gyms.

Source: IANS

Image source: Getty Images

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