|
|||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
Food |
|
Two hours a week is the key dose of nature for health and wellbeing, say researchers
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff
Research led by the University of Exeter found that people who spend at least 120 minutes in nature a week are significantly more likely to report good health and higher psychological wellbeing than those who don't visit nature at all during an average week. Scientific Reports published an article on the research, which was funded by the National Institute for Health Research. However, no such benefits were found for people who visited natural settings, such as town parks, woodlands, country parks and beaches, for less than 120 minutes a week. The study used data from nearly 20,000 people in England and found that it didn't matter whether the 120 minutes was achieved in a single visit or over several shorter visits. It also found the 120-minute threshold applied to both men and women, to older and younger adults, across different occupational and ethnic groups, among those living in both rich and poor areas, and even among people with long term illnesses or disabilities. "It's well known that getting outdoors in nature can be good for people's health and wellbeing but until now we've not been able to say how much is enough,” said Mat White of the University of Exeter Medical School, who led the study. “The majority of nature visits in this research took place within just two miles of home, so even visiting local urban greenspaces seems to be a good thing. Two hours a week is hopefully a realistic target for many people, especially given that it can be spread over an entire week to get the benefit." There is growing evidence that merely living in a greener neighborhood can be good for health, for instance by reduced air pollution. The data for the current research came from Natural England's Monitor of Engagement with the Natural Environment Survey, the world's largest study collecting data on people's weekly contact with the natural world, said the report. "There are many reasons why spending time in nature may be good for health and wellbeing, including getting perspective on life circumstances, reducing stress, and enjoying quality time with friends and family,” said Terry Hartig, a professor at Uppsala University in Sweden and co-author of the research. “The current findings offer valuable support to health practitioners in making recommendations about spending time in nature to promote basic health and wellbeing, similar to guidelines for weekly physical." Full research can be reached at Exeter University link* ---------------- What other advice would you give to improve health in a natural way without medication? We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to: news@amcostarica.com |
   |
      |
