A Walk in the park = Happy?

A walk in the park may change the workings of our brains that improve our mental health, according to an interesting new study of the physical effects on the brain of visiting nature.

Most of us 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 centers.

These developments seem to be linked according to a growing body of research. Various studies have found that urban dwellers with little access to green spaces have a higher incidence of psychological problems than people living near parks.  City dwellers who visit natural environments have lower levels of stress hormones immediately afterward than people who have not recently been outside.

Believe the research and take that next mini-break outside! You will feel happier and sleep better - go for it, and take a co-worker with you.