The psychological impact of green: The importance of trees for our well-being

The greenery around us, the trees we see in parks, squares and even in our own backyards, has a greater impact on our well-being than we often realise. We all experience the calming effect of a walk in the woods or the peaceful view of greenery from our windows.

Trees and green spaces play a crucial role in the urban ecosystem and contribute to the quality of life of city residents in ways that go beyond their contribution to the environment. Green public spaces and gardens have a direct impact on our mental health. They help reduce stress, improve our mood and even promote cognitive development in children.

The science behind the psychological benefits of green spaces and trees

Research by RIVM and Wageningen University & Research (WUR) shows that greenery in the environment contributes to both physical and mental health. These studies show that the presence of natural elements such as trees, parks and green spaces can help reduce stress and improve concentration levels at various levels.

The impact of trees and green spaces on stress reduction

Natural environments such as trees and other green spaces have an impressive capacity to reduce stress. Green environments, ranging from avenue-side trees to parks and natural reserves, have been found to reduce the harm of stress and promote recovery. This is not just due to the soothing effects of viewing nature, but also because a green environment can stimulate movement and social interaction. Furthermore, the calming sounds of rustling leaves and birdcalls can contribute to stress reduction.

The effect of greenery on mood and emotions

Greenery also positively influences mood and emotions. Contact with nature can increase happiness and decrease stress, contributing to an overall sense of wellbeing. Greenery can also stimulate vitality and creativity, and helps to promote encounters between people. Research indicates that patients who had a view of green trees after surgery recovered faster than those who faced a brick wall, indicating the positive emotional effects of exposure to greenery.

Trees and children's cognitive development in the digital age

In a world where children are increasingly spending time behind screens and playing less outdoors, the role of greenery, particularly trees, in children's cognitive development becomes increasingly significant. Research shows that contact with greenery contributes to improvements in concentration, memory, and academic performance, which are especially crucial in children. Given the increasing digitisation and use of mobile devices by children, greenery can play an important role in counteracting the potential negative consequences of reduced physical activity and outdoor play.

Interestingly, children living in green neighbourhoods are fifteen percent less likely to struggle with obesity, suggesting that green environments contribute to healthier lifestyle habits, even in the digital age. In addition, research indicates that the greener the living environment, the less children aged five to twelve years use ADHD medication. This emphasises the potential of green environments to assist in cognitive skills and children's wellbeing in a time when the balance between digital and natural life continuously needs adjustment.

Public and private green spaces: differences and similarities

Public greenery and private greenery are both essential to our health and wellbeing, but in different ways. Public greenery, like parks and playgrounds, is accessible to everyone and encourages movement and relaxation. It promotes social interaction and contributes to community cohesion. On the other hand, private greenery, such as gardens and green roofs, offers personal and direct access to greenery. It encourages relaxation and mental health on a more individual basis and contributes to managing climate change on a small scale. While both types of greenery offer similar benefits, they also each have unique characteristics. Public greenery promotes social interaction and a sense of community, while private greenery ensures a more personal connection with nature.

Towards a greener and healthier living environment!

Greenery in our living environment, such as trees and shrubs, is of inestimable value with demonstrable benefits for our mental and physical health, from stress reduction to improved concentration and social interaction. Therefore, it is of great importance that we continue to make our urban and rural areas greener, and thankfully, we see that more and more projects from the municipality, government, business sector, and private gardens recognise the importance of greenery and integrate it from the start in their development plans.