Researchers claim that just five minutes of exercise in a "green space" such as a park can boost mental health. <br/><br/>There is growing evidence that combining activities such as walking or cycling with nature boosts well-being. In the latest analysis, British researchers looked at evidence from 1,250 people in 10 studies and found fast improvements in mood and self-esteem. <br/><br/>The study in the Environmental Science and Technology journal suggested the strongest impact was on young people. The research looked at many different outdoor activities including walking, gardening, cycling, fishing, boating, horse-riding and farming in locations such as a park, garden or nature trail. <br/><br/>The biggest effect was seen within just five minutes. Looking at men and women of different ages, the researchers found the health changes – physical and mental – were particularly strong in the young and the mentally-ill. <br/>
News On AIR | May 2, 2010 9:20 AM
Green exercise boosts mental health