Living near green spaces inversely associated with direct health care costs, stress and chronic disease.
Living in greener neighborhoods can slow biological aging. A study by Northwestern scientists found that people who live near green spaces, such as parks and plant-enriched areas, tend to age slower. The study, published in Science of the Total Environment, found that people who lived in neighborhoods with more green space had longer telomeres, which are associated with longer lives and slower ageing.
A 5% increase in a neighborhood's green space was associated with a 1% reduction in the aging of cells. The more green the area, the slower the cell ageing The study found that people who lived near green spaces were biologically 2.5 years younger than those who lived near less greenery.
“Research is now showing that where we live, what we are exposed to, how much we exercise, what we eat, each of these can impact the speed of telomeres degrading and again our ageing process,” said Aaron Hipp, a professor of parks, recreation and tourism management at North Carolina State and a co-author of the study. “A longer telomere is usually a younger telomere, or a more protective, helpful telomere. It is protecting that cell from the ageing process.”
Green space promotes physical activity and community interaction, which are both associated with better health outcomes. Neighborhoods with plenty of trees and greenery are also often cooler, more resistant to flooding and have lower rates of air pollution.
Other studies have shown that people living in greener neighborhoods have several health benefits, including lower levels of stress and cardiovascular disease. Living near green spaces is also inversely associated with direct health care costs.
Nature has a profound impact on our well-being, both physically and mentally. Scientific research has delved into this connection, and the findings are quite fascinating.
Stress Reduction: Spending time in nature has been linked to a decrease in cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. Nature provides a peaceful and calming environment that can help reduce the physiological and psychological effects of stress.
Improved Mood: Exposure to nature has been shown to boost mood and reduce symptoms of depression. The outdoors is often associated with positive emotions and a sense of well-being. This effect is thought to be related to the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.
Enhanced Creativity: Time in nature has been found to improve creativity and problem-solving skills. This is often attributed to the restorative effect that nature has on the brain, allowing for improved cognitive function and a fresh perspective.
Better Concentration: Nature can improve focus and concentration. Studies have shown that spending time in green spaces or even just looking at natural scenes can enhance attention and cognitive function.
Physical Health Benefits: Exposure to nature is associated with better physical health. People who spend more time outdoors tend to engage in more physical activity, leading to improved cardiovascular health and a reduced risk of chronic diseases.
Immune System Boost: Some research suggests that spending time in nature may have a positive impact on the immune system. The natural compounds released by trees and plants, called phytoncides, have been associated with an increase in the activity of natural killer cells and other components of the immune system.
Improved Sleep: Being in natural surroundings has been linked to better sleep quality. The fresh air, reduced exposure to artificial light, and the overall calming effect of nature contribute to a more restful sleep.
Social Connection: Nature provides a conducive environment for social interactions. Whether it's a walk in the park, a hike, or other outdoor activities, spending time in nature often involves social engagement, fostering a sense of connection and community.
These findings highlight the importance of incorporating nature into our lives for overall well-being. Whether it's a stroll in the park, a weekend hike, or simply spending time in a green space, nature has a multitude of benefits for both our physical and mental health.