If you’re looking for a new apartment or house, look for one near a park or nature reserve. Living within a short walking distance to urban green space is associated with enhanced feelings of happiness, self-worth, and overall life satisfaction, according to a new study published in the scientific journal Applied Geography.
Researchers from the UK put together the first-ever study to investigate and demonstrate the link between natural, green areas and individual mental well-being. Interestingly, they found that living near nature and greenery is more relevant to mental health than the level of income, employment, and overall health.
Previous studies have shown that, after getting out and experiencing some nature and green foliage, individuals usually feel better. The authors of this research, however, wanted to define just how much green space is required and how near it should be to the home of a person to have a beneficial effect on mental health. Green spaces of at least 2.5 acres and within 300 meters (0.18 miles) of an individual’s home had the greatest effect.
