New research in the journal Biology Letters took an interesting approach to studying psychological well-being in green spaces. Benefits of green spaces have long been established but new research in areas like landscaping, architecture and ecopsychology are extending ideas. This study suggests it’s not just access to green space but the species richness of those places that boosts feelings of wellness like reflection, unique identity and emotional attachment to the park.

Researchers in the mid-sized city of Sheffield, England inventoried species in green spaces then conducted interviews with people in them (n = 314) to rate their psychological states and also their perception of biodiversity. They found a positive correlation between the numbers of plant species, perceptions of them, and higher rankings of wellness. There was a small connection with the size of the park, though no strong ties with tree cover or the number of butterflies and birds.

It’s difficult to link direct causality. Questions of people who already feel a connection between certain places and their wellness biasing the samplings, or socio-economics linked to accessing nicer parks, were not addressed. But the correlations are strong.

Personally, I live in a part of the world (Vancouver, Canada) with some of the richest temperate rainforest parks and have definitely noticed a difference between visiting those parks versus some of the more stark urban parks with mown grass and a few saplings around some tulip beds. It is very comforting to be immersed in nature’s full bounty (even with groomed trails). Next time you’re seeking some stress relief or choosing a picnic spot, perhaps this research will lead you to green spaces with more biodiversity, even if it means going out of your way. As well, implications for urban planners and landscapers seem clear. Biodiversity benefits humans as well as other species.

Read the full article (subscription required): Psychological benefits of greenspace increase with biodiversity, Fuller et al., 2007, Biology Letters.

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    Last reviewed: By John M. Grohol, Psy.D. on 9 Jul 2007
    Published on PsychCentral.com. All rights reserved.