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Health

Greenery for the Soul

June 15, 2017

According to a British study, a mere five minutes of exercise in a green space can measurably boost well-being, self-esteem and mental health.

https://p.dw.com/p/1EJ6C
Deutschland Erlebniswandern: Paerchen beim Wandern
Image: picture-alliance/dpa/C. Klose

A study at the University of Essex has concluded that just 5 minutes of physical activity in a green environment provide measurable benefits to self-esteem and mental health. The greatest jump in mood and self-confience in test subjects occurred in the first five minutes, and the effect was even more positive in areas with both greenery and water. Walking, cycling and gardening all offer practical opportunities to put the phenomenon to use in your own life. Our suggestion for today: spend a few minutes of your lunch break in the nearest park or patch of greenery.