World Parks Day

The human species has evolved from, and been nurtured by, the natural environment – we are a biological product of the earth itself. This deep connection is one that we must all remember. Our parks are the storehouse of our past and, more importantly, of our future.

Contact with nature enriches our psychological, emotional and spiritual wellbeing. Parks are places of adventure and challenge, exercise, peace and quiet, recreation, gathering and relaxation.

In them, we find a sense of enjoyment, strong community spirit and wonder in nature. Parks offer a range of recreation activities to bring families and friends together in appealing places. 

Regular exercise in green spaces has many mental health benefits. In a study of people suffering from mental illness, 90% or more of them indicated that green exercise activities had benefited their mental health, they had greater self esteem, focus of mind, were more relaxed, more motivated, enjoyed an improved quality of life, and felt ‘refreshed and alive’.

Postnatal depression is the most prevalent mood disorder associated with childbirth and affects up to 15% of childbearing women. Contact with nature in parks can make a difference.

Parks are pleasant and accessible settings for combating the effects of our increasingly sedentary lifestyles, such as obesity, high blood pressure and depression.

In parks, families and friends can come together to have fun, celebrate important occasions or just relax and take time out. This immense social
value is part of the ‘glue’ of a healthy society. As venues for adult and junior sporting clubs, parks provide space for physical exercise, and support team building, making friends and building a sense of civic pride.

Find out more at World Parks Day