London - A quick stroll in the fresh air can be just the thing to clear your mind of the day’s stresses and strains.
In fact, researchers claim that townsfolk who live near parks and green spaces have better mental health.
Not only does moving to a greener area improve a person’s well-being, but the study says you keep feeling the benefits of a local park long after you have left.
The research, carried out at the University of Exeter, looked at more than 1,000 people over the course of five years.
Some had moved to greener towns and cities while others had relocated to urban areas without much greenery .
The people who moved to greener areas experienced an immediate improvement in mental health – which continued for at least three years after they moved away.
The study, published in the journal of Environmental Science & Technology, also showed that people relocating to more built-up areas suffered a decline in mental health.
Lead researcher Dr Ian Alcock said: ‘Individuals who move to greener areas have significant and long-lasting improvements in mental health.
‘These findings are important for planners thinking about introducing green spaces to towns and cities, suggesting they could provide long-term benefits for communities.’
Daily Mail