To be happy, live near parks and trees

Parks, gardens and green spaces in urban areas can improve the mood and quality of life of people nearby, British research has revealed.

Surveying data from 5,000 households in this country with 10,000 adults in 17 years (from 1991 to 2008) when they moved around the city, Exeter University researchers found living in a green space. bring significant positive effects. It makes them less nervous, and has a higher level of satisfaction with life.

This is true even when taking into account changes in income, work, marital status, health and type of study participants.

"Living in a high-density urban area has a good impact on the mood, almost 1/3 of the impact of the big" kicks "in life, like marriage , " Dr. Mathew White, a member of the research team, said.

This effect is also found to be equivalent to 1/10 of employment.

Researchers believe that this effect for each individual may be small, but it will be significant for the entire community, helping authorities to make better comparisons when deciding to invest in public places such as build park .

Beth Murphy, head of information for Mind's Mental Health Foundation, said: "For busy citizens of crowded cities, being outside and enjoying green space is a great way to get rid of the stresses of everyday life ".

"Our research shows that 94% of outdoor" green exercise "participants feel relaxed and have a great impact on physical health."