A natural environment can contribute to human health in multiple ways, from children to the elderly. Scientists at home and abroad have been researching the relationship between nature and health for years.
And time and again, they come to the conclusion that a green and natural living environment has a positive effect on people's health. A free 'green medicine'—that is good news at a time when healthcare costs are only rising.
People who live in a green environment not only feel healthier, they actually are. They visit the doctor less often, suffer less from depression, diabetes, and lung conditions, and recover more easily from stress than people who live in an environment with little greenery.
Examples where a natural 'green' environment can contribute to people's health:
• stress recovery;
• it can encourage social contact;
• it can contribute to the optimal development of children;
• it can promote personal development and a sense of purpose;
• and it can encourage movement.
For all these reasons, the advice is to take a daily walk in nature.
Nice to-do assignment
Schedule at least three days a week for yourself over the coming month to walk for at least 30 minutes a day in a green environment. This can be in the morning before work, during lunch or a break, or in the evening before going to bed. You can also walk 3 x 10 or 2 x 15 minutes on these days if 30 minutes continuously does not fit into your daily schedule. Always think in terms of possibilities instead of limitations!
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