5 Health Benefits of Our Green Spaces

As you get outside this spring, have you ever considered how our green spaces contribute to our health? Studies show that green space and landscaping contribute to health, happiness, and intellect.

It's natural to long for spring when it's cold outside. But did you know, there's a good reason why you may pine for green? Living landscapes are an important part of the outdoor lifestyle that Americans enjoy, but the benefits go beyond the barbeque and backyard baseball. Green spaces are necessary for your health.

The advantages of grass and landscaping surpass the usual physical benefits that result from outdoor activity, said Kris Kiser, president and CEO, Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI). Numerous studies have found that people who spend more time outside or are exposed to living landscapes are happier, healthier and smarter. As you get ready to get outside this spring with your lawn mower and other outdoor power equipment, it's great to know being outside is good for you.

Researchers have studied the impact of nature on human well-being for years, but recent studies have found a more direct correlation between human health, particularly related to stress, and the importance of people's access to nature and managed landscapes.