BENEFITS OF URBAN PARKS

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BENEFITS

Nature and green spaces contribute directly to public health by reducing stress and mental disorders, reducing health inequalities, and increasing perception of life quality and self-reported general health. Indirect health effects are conveyed by providing arenas and opportunities for physical activity, increasing satisfaction of living environment and social interactions, and by different modes of recreation. 
Meditation in Green Space

 All these indicators correspond well to the definition of health established by the World Health Organization (WHO) (1946), including physical, mental, and social components in the health concept. In addition the definition of public health (Winslow, 1920) even further emphasizes the efforts by society and communities for promoting health and preventing diseases. Thus, to support and improve public health varied actions are required by local administrators and policy makers. Within this field creating healthy urban environments is an important contribution. Considering the high level of global urbanization urban parks are imperative for maintaining and improving public health. This section demonstrates the scientific evidence for health effects, direct or indirect, from urban parks.