Reduced 'green time' in parks and wildlife areas may be linked to the rise in anxiety, depression and other mental illnesses in cities, writes Gretchen Reynolds A WALK in the park may soothe the mind and, in the process, change the workings of our brains in ways that improve our mental health, according to a new study of the physical effects on the brain of visiting nature.Most people today live in cities and spend far less time outside in green, natural spaces than people did several generations ago.City dwellers also have a higher risk for anxiety, depression and other mental illnesses than people living outside urban centres, studies show.These developments seem to be linked to some extent, according to a growing body of research.Studies have found that urban dwellers with little access to green spaces have a higher incidence of psychological problems than people living near parks, while city dwellers who visit natural environments have lower levels of stress hormones immediately...
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