When the pandemic hit, I started walking in the forest near my home.
No matter what the weather, I walked in the forest. I identified redbuds, oak, maple, beech, and river birch trees. I took deep breathes and enjoyed my time away from a computer and phone. Like so many people, it took me weeks to settle into working, sleeping, eating, and spending most of my day at home. What made my life easier was time spent in the forest.
Is brain function improved by living near a forest?
It turns out there are numerous studies that show living near a forest or spending time in nature helps us better cope with daily stress. And you don't need to live in the country to benefit from nature.
According to Central Park Conservancy, walking in the park during the pandemic has become a mental health necessity. In fact Dr. Shane O'Mara, a neuroscientist and professor at Trinity College Dublin says walking is at the core of our humanity.
Residents of Washington DC have Rock Creek Park, a 32 mile forested trail from just above the National Mall through
Montgomery County Maryland. One day many years ago, I picked up my in-laws up from National airport and drove home through Rock Creek Park. While still in Washington DC, my mother in law commented on how quickly we had left the city. When I told her we were still in Washington DC, she couldn't believe it.
"We are in a forest, how could we still be in the city?" she asked.
For 100+ years residents of the District have enjoyed this beautiful forest. In addition to Rock Creek Park, Washington DC has the Anacostia Park and many large city parks offering green sprawling lawns under old large trees. During the pandemic, I saw more people than ever walking in Rock Creek.
In his book, In Praise of Walking, Dr. O'Mara says when our bodies are outdoors and in motion we think more creatively, our mood improves and our stress levels fall.
I've noticed a shift in buying habits for many homebuyers. Over the past couple of years, more of my home buying clients want a home close to green space, forests and parks. More homebuyers want easy access to the outdoors where they can take a break from work. The needs & wants list of many buyers has 'close to green space' at the top of the needs category.
Forests and parks are an important part of urban planning. I'm heartened by the numerous studies showing the value of forests to the quality of life and our overall well being.
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