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Ahler JR, Busk H, Holm PM, Bricca A, Poulsen DV, Skou ST, Tang LH. Benefits and harms of structured outdoor physical activity for people with somatic or mental diseases: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Prev Med 2024; 183:107966. [PMID: 38641081 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2024.107966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the benefits and harms of structured outdoor physical activity (PA) for people living with one or more somatic or mental diseases. METHODS We identified articles from inception until Marts 2023 in MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and CENTRAL and citation tracking in Web of Science. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies examining structured outdoor PA reporting physical function, health-related quality of life (HRQOL), pain or mental outcomes. We used random-effect meta-analyses and investigated heterogeneity in subgroups, sensitivity and meta-regression analyses. Observational studies and studies with insufficient data were summarized narratively. Certainty of evidence was assessed with GRADE. RESULTS From 4098 hits, 20 studies (19 RCTs and 1 cohort) were included (n: 1759 participants). Studies varied in type of disease and intervention. End of intervention results suggested a small effect on HRQOL (k = 10, SMD = 0.45, 95%CI: 0.19 to 0.71) and physical function (k = 14, SMD = 0.39, 95%CI: 0.13 to 0.64), while effects were moderate on mental outcomes (k = 13, SMD = -0.52, 95%CI: -0.82 to -0.23) favoring the outdoor intervention over comparators (no intervention, usual care, indoor PA or outdoor intervention without exercise). We were not able to conclude on outdoor interventions' effect on pain. Four studies reported adverse events including non-serious (pain, falls, fatigue) and serious (hospitalization, pneumonia). Certainty of evidence was overall very low. CONCLUSION Structured outdoor PA may improve HRQOL and physical function, as well as mental health outcomes. The very low certainty of evidence calls for high quality RCTs to determine benefits and harms of structured outdoor PA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas R Ahler
- The Research and Implementation Unit PROgrez, Department of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Næstved-Slagelse-Ringsted Hospitals, Region Zealand, 4200, Slagelse, Denmark; Department of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.
| | - Henriette Busk
- Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management, University of Copenhagen, Rolighedsvej 23, DK-1958 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Pætur M Holm
- The Research and Implementation Unit PROgrez, Department of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Næstved-Slagelse-Ringsted Hospitals, Region Zealand, 4200, Slagelse, Denmark; Research Unit for Musculoskeletal Function and Physiotherapy, Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark; Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Faroe Islands, Tórshavn, Faroe Islands
| | - Alessio Bricca
- The Research and Implementation Unit PROgrez, Department of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Næstved-Slagelse-Ringsted Hospitals, Region Zealand, 4200, Slagelse, Denmark; Research Unit for Musculoskeletal Function and Physiotherapy, Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Dorthe V Poulsen
- Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management, University of Copenhagen, Rolighedsvej 23, DK-1958 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Søren T Skou
- The Research and Implementation Unit PROgrez, Department of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Næstved-Slagelse-Ringsted Hospitals, Region Zealand, 4200, Slagelse, Denmark; Research Unit for Musculoskeletal Function and Physiotherapy, Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Lars H Tang
- The Research and Implementation Unit PROgrez, Department of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Næstved-Slagelse-Ringsted Hospitals, Region Zealand, 4200, Slagelse, Denmark; Department of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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Yan T, Leng H, Yuan Z. Construction of the "Full Path" of restorative effects on older adults' mental health in parks under seasonal differences: taking Changchun as an example. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1269249. [PMID: 38655512 PMCID: PMC11035837 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1269249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
With the aging and older adults' mental health problems in China, more attention has been paid to the restorative environment. As an important restorative environment in the city, the mental health restorative effect of park environment has been confirmed. However, further exploration is needed to determine whether winter parks have positive effects, their differences from non-winter parks, and the specific pathways of these effects. Therefore, this study constructed a "full path" for the restorative effects of older adults' mental health in parks under seasonal differences, including four components: perceived environment, affective feedback, behavioral feedback, and restorative effect, forming four pathways. Based on this, this study obtained 211 and 240 sample data in winter and non-winter parks, and verified the validity of various hypotheses and mediation paths using structural equation models. It found that: (1) overall restorative effects existed in different seasons; (2) in winter, perceived environmental assessment was not a direct antecedent of restorative effects, and affective feedback and Moderate and Vigorous Physical Activity (MVPA) feedback were important mediating factors, and the chain mediated pathway existed; (3) in non-winter, both direct, indirect and chain mediated effects existed, and affective feedback and Low Physical Activity (LPA) feedback were important mediating factors. Based on this, this study divided parks into "affective inducing" and "behavioral promoting" types, and proposed corresponding planning priorities to positively intervene in planning and design practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianjiao Yan
- School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Jilin Jianzhu University, Changchun, China
- Urban Spatial Performance Assessment and Visualization and Decision-Making Lab, Jilin Jianzhu University, Changchun, China
- Research Center for Innovation Development Strategy on the Ecological Wisdom of Urban and Rural Planning in Jilin Province, Changchun, China
| | - Hong Leng
- School of Architecture and Design, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of National Territory and Spatial Planning and Ecological Restoration in Cold Regions, Ministry of Natural Resources, Harbin, China
| | - Ziqing Yuan
- Department of Geography, Faculty of Social and Historical Sciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Carreño A, Fontdecaba E, Izquierdo A, Enciso O, Daunis-i-Estadella P, Mateu-Figueras G, Palarea-Albaladejo J, Gascon M, Vendrell C, Lloveras M, San J, Gómez S, Minuto S, Lloret J. Blue prescription: A pilot study of health benefits for oncological patients of a short program of activities involving the sea. Heliyon 2023; 9:e17713. [PMID: 37483694 PMCID: PMC10362171 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e17713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Performing outdoor activities in blue spaces can help improve human health and mental well-being by reducing stress and promoting social relationships. The number of people surviving cancer has increased globally to experience this disease as a life-changing and chronic condition with physical and psychosocial symptoms that have negative impacts on their quality of life. While there has been a growth of programs in green spaces to meet the needs of cancer patients, such as follow-up post-treatment care, support groups and physical activity programs, very few studies have examined the effects of activities involving the sea for the health and well-being of oncology patients. This is the first study to evaluate whether different outdoor activities in blue spaces can benefit oncological patients' physical and mental health using smartwatches, sphygmomanometers and Profile of Mood States (POMS) questionnaires. We assessed changes in blood pressure, heart rate, sleep quality and mental health of 16 patients after twelve sessions of three different activities (walking, beach and snorkelling) and four sessions of a control activity. While no significant differences between activities were observed in terms of the data gathered by the smartwatches, a gradient of positive results for human mental health was observed towards exposure to a blue space, assessed through POMS questionnaires. Results show that exposure to blue spaces contributes to tension and anger reduction and improves the vigour mood state of oncology patients. No significant increases in patients' heart rate were recorded after the beach and snorkelling activities, with results similar to the control activity, suggesting that the contribution may be to participants' relaxation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnau Carreño
- Sea Health, Oceans and Human Health Chair, Institute of Aquatic Ecology, University of Girona, C/ Maria Aurèlia Capmany 69, 17003, Girona, Spain
| | - Eva Fontdecaba
- Medicina de Familia, CAP Castelló D’Empúries, Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Angel Izquierdo
- Institut Català D'Oncologia, Hospital de Girona Dr. Josep Trueta, Avinguda de França S/n, 17007, Girona, Spain
| | - Olga Enciso
- Medicina de Familia, CAP Tossa de Mar, Corporació de Salut Del Maresme I La Selva, Girona, Spain
| | - Pepus Daunis-i-Estadella
- Dept. of Computer Science, Applied Mathematics and Statistics, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Gloria Mateu-Figueras
- Dept. of Computer Science, Applied Mathematics and Statistics, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | | | - Mireia Gascon
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Barcelona Biomedical Research Park (PRBB) Doctor Aiguader, 88 08003, Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Joan San
- Sea Health, Oceans and Human Health Chair, Institute of Aquatic Ecology, University of Girona, C/ Maria Aurèlia Capmany 69, 17003, Girona, Spain
| | - Sílvia Gómez
- Dep. Social Anthropology, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Building B-Campus UAB, 08193, Bellaterra, (Cerdanyola Del Vallès) Barcelona, Spain
| | - Stefania Minuto
- Sea Health, Oceans and Human Health Chair, Institute of Aquatic Ecology, University of Girona, C/ Maria Aurèlia Capmany 69, 17003, Girona, Spain
| | - Josep Lloret
- Sea Health, Oceans and Human Health Chair, Institute of Aquatic Ecology, University of Girona, C/ Maria Aurèlia Capmany 69, 17003, Girona, Spain
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Litleskare S, Calogiuri G. Nature visits during the COVID-19 pandemic in Norway: Facilitators, motives, and associations with sociodemographic characteristics. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1138915. [PMID: 36992896 PMCID: PMC10040678 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1138915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
IntroductionThe COVID-19 pandemic has been linked to increased mental health issues and reduced well-being. Researchers also reports increased frequency of nature visits during the pandemic, proposing it may mitigate some of these negative consequences. Using the case of Norway, a country with ample access to nature and relatively low levels of pandemic-related restrictions, this study sought to (i) understand how the COVID-19 crisis impacted patterns of nature visits and specific nature-based activities, (ii) examine how these patterns varied among different population groups and levels of restrictions, and (iii) explore the motives and facilitators for increased frequency of nature visits.MethodsThe data were retrieved from a national cross-sectional survey conducted in June 2021, which was designed to assess participants (n = 1,005, age > 15 years) habits in relation to nature visits and outdoor recreation since the beginning of the COVID-19 crisis, and associated factors.ResultsThe results showed that 32 % of participants increased their frequency of nature visits during the crisis, while 11 % experienced a decrease. Multivariate logistic regression revealed significant positive associations between increased frequency of nature visits and longer duration of lockdown restrictions (OR [95% CI] = 2.35 [1.28–4.29] and 4.92 [2.77–8.74] for a few weeks and several months of lockdown, respectively). Increased frequency of nature visits was also more likely among women, younger respondents, and individuals from high-income households. A Cochran's Q test showed that the most common motive for increased frequency of nature visits was “To be physically active” (74%). The most commonly reported facilitators were the possibility of using natural environments as an alternative to gyms and organized sports alongside having more time available (58 and 49%, respectively).ConclusionThese findings suggest that nature visits provided important opportunities for physical activity during the COVID-19 crisis, but also that the mental health benefits of nature visits during such times may be under-communicated. This highlights the importance of access to natural environments to promote physical activity and health, but also suggests that campaigns that specifically communicate the beneficial effects of nature visits during lockdowns or similar stressful situations might help people cope with the situation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sigbjørn Litleskare
- Department of Public Health and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Social and Health Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Elverum, Norway
- *Correspondence: Sigbjørn Litleskare
| | - Giovanna Calogiuri
- Department of Public Health and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Social and Health Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Elverum, Norway
- Department of Nursing and Health Sciences, Centre for Health and Technology, University of South-Eastern Norway, Drammen, Norway
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Tao M, Lu L, Gao J, He X. Horticultural activities can achieve the same affect improvement effect of green exercise: A randomized field controlled trial. Front Psychol 2022; 13:989919. [PMID: 36467130 PMCID: PMC9709488 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.989919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES With the deepening of non-drug intervention research on human mental health, more and more attention has been paid to the benefits of horticultural activities and green exercise on physical and psychological health. This study compared the affect improvement between horticultural activities with the same intensity and green exercise and that with or without green plants to verify the value of horticultural activities and green exercise in improving human affect and the importance of green plants. METHODS A total of 160 subjects aged 18-26 years (average age 22.5 years) were recruited and randomly divided into a control group, a horticultural activity group with green plants, a horticultural activity group without green plants, and a green exercise group. Demographics, sociological variables, and daily physical activity levels were investigated. Green space at Zhejiang Normal University was selected as the test site. After finishing the preparation work, the subjects sat quietly for 8 min before the pre-test. The horticultural group completed 20 min of horticultural activities {8 min of digging [40%*HRR(heart rate reserve) + RHR(resting heart rate)] + 8 min of transplantation [(50%*HRR + RHR) + 4 min of watering (30%*HRR + RHR)]}. The group returned to a calm state (no less than 20 min) for the post-test. The green exercise group completed a 20-min power bike ride. The activity intensity and activity time of the green exercise group were determined according to the activity intensity and time of the horticultural group. Dependent variables were collected, including blood pressure, positive/negative affects, heart rate variability (RMSSD, SDNN, and LF/HF), and controlled covariate environmental parameters (field temperature, humidity, and noise). RESULTS (1) A significant difference was observed in the improvement effect except for negative affect between the green horticultural activity group and the green exercise group (F = 3.310; ɳp2 = 0.046; p = 0.037). No significant difference was observed in other affect indicators. (2) In the same pattern of with and without green plant horticultural activity group, the green plant horticultural activity group had a better effect on the improvement of affect, and the two groups had a better negative affect (F = 3.310; ɳp2 = 0.046; p = 0.037), SDNN index of heart rate variability(F = 1.035; ɳp2 = 0.015; p = 0.039), and RMSSD index (F = 2.225; ɳp2 = 0.032; p = 0.014), and no significant difference was observed in the improvement effect of other affect indicators between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS Having green horticulture can give the same intensity as green exercise and affect improvement. Findings suggest that people can choose green exercise or horticultural activities according to their preferences and physical characteristics in the two physical activities. Under the same pattern of horticultural activities, green plants are the key factor in improving the affect of horticultural activities. Choosing suitable plant types in horticultural activities is positively significant in enhancing affect.
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Chambers TP, Poidomani J. “Like Nothing I’ve Seen Before”: A Qualitative Inquiry Into the Lived Experience of Competing in a Trail Running Event. Front Psychol 2022; 13:817685. [PMID: 35360602 PMCID: PMC8963904 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.817685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A recent upsurge in nature-based exercise research demonstrates the potential added benefits of exercising in this context compared to more urban ones. Yet there is a lack of qualitative research investigating the lived experiences of those who participate in nature-based exercise events. Objective To explore the lived experience of individuals who were first-time participants in a nature-based running event. Method Six participants who completed the Run Forrest trail run for the first time were individually interviewed. Semi-structured interviews were devised, and participants were invited to talk about their experiences of running in the event. Interviews were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Results Following data analysis, two superordinate themes were constructed to resemble participant experiences. “Maintaining good health is vital” reflected participants’ personal theory of health and their perceived benefits of exercise. “Nature as a special place” reflected the atmospheric characteristics of the event, including the pre-event set-up and the actual running event itself. Conclusion Analysis suggests that participants considered the event and natural environment to provide unique value adding opportunities that encouraged positive experiences. These results also reaffirm the positive benefits associated with nature-based exercise, including potential benefits to individual wellbeing. Further research in this context may strengthen our collective understanding regarding individual motivation towards such events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy P. Chambers
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
- *Correspondence: Timothy P. Chambers,
| | - Jennifer Poidomani
- Discipline of Psychological Science, Australian College of Applied Psychology (ACAP), Sydney, NSW, Australia
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So B, Kwon KH. The impact of physical activity on well-being, lifestyle and health promotion in an era of COVID-19 and SARS-CoV-2 variant. Postgrad Med 2022; 134:349-358. [DOI: 10.1080/00325481.2022.2052467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bohee So
- Division of Beauty Arts Care, Department of Practical Arts, Graduate School of Culture and Arts, Dongguk University, Seoul 04620, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki Han Kwon
- College of General Education, Kookmin University, Seoul 02707, Republic of Korea
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Zhai X, Lange E. The Influence of Covid-19 on Perceived Health Effects of Wetland Parks in China. WETLANDS (WILMINGTON, N.C.) 2021; 41:101. [PMID: 34720329 PMCID: PMC8542502 DOI: 10.1007/s13157-021-01505-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Wetland parks are designed to support urban ecological protection, flood control and human well-being. Existing research mainly focuses on their influence on ecology and economy. However, their influence on human well-being and health is rarely studied. In China, during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic (Peak), people were very concerned about health, while at the same time wetland parks which are generally considered beneficial to health were closed. Thus, this study explores the public's perception of the health effects of visiting wetland parks and the impact of the pandemic on the perception. From March 5th to 8th, 2020, before the Peak in China was over, 1,400 respondents participated in a nationwide online survey. It was found that the perceived benefits from visiting wetland parks were higher in terms of mental health than in physical health. Also, the perceived health benefits of wetland parks after the Peak were slightly higher than before the pandemic. The results highlight that wildlife habitat services were considered to be the most important ecosystem services that promote the perceived health benefits. Interestingly, the perceived health benefits of wetland parks by health experts appear to be lower than in other groups, indicating that the health benefits of visiting wetland parks may be overestimated by lay-people or underestimated by health experts. The results provide empirical evidence for managing ecosystem services as delivered by these urban wetlands, in the context of COVID-19 or potential future pandemics, for promoting public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuezhu Zhai
- Department of Landscape Architecture, University of Sheffield, Western Bank, Sheffield, S10 2TN UK
| | - Eckart Lange
- Department of Landscape Architecture, University of Sheffield, Western Bank, Sheffield, S10 2TN UK
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Picturing Settlement Experiences: Immigrant Women’s Senses of Comfortable and Uncomfortable Places in a Small Urban Center in Canada. JOURNAL OF INTERNATIONAL MIGRATION AND INTEGRATION 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s12134-021-00903-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Abstract
The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes that health and well-being are essential to achieving the United Nations (UN) Development Agenda 2030, which includes the goal of empowering people to adopt active lifestyles while protecting the planet’s health. This article aims at exploring how exercise performed in different natural settings can contribute to improving health and to a more sustainable world. We define “exercise” as a form of physical activity undertaken to increase fitness, health, and well-being, and argue for the importance of “green” and “blue” exercise as forms of physical activity that are associated with the protection and sustainability of natural settings and the promotion of planetary health. Blue and green exercise should become a focus of public policies, especially when outdoor activities are being identified as fundamental for the promotion of mental, physical, social, and spiritual health. The current paper intends to raise the awareness of political decision-makers and professionals in education, environment, and heath sectors for the potential of green and blue exercise as specific exercise practices that are healthy, joyful, and environmentally friendly.
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Pearson AL, Breeze V, Reuben A, Wyatt G. Increased Use of Porch or Backyard Nature during COVID-19 Associated with Lower Stress and Better Symptom Experience among Breast Cancer Patients. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:9102. [PMID: 34501691 PMCID: PMC8430585 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18179102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Contact with nature has been used to promote both physical and mental health, and is increasingly used among cancer patients. However, the COVID-19 pandemic created new challenges in both access to nature in public spaces and in cancer care. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the change in active and passive use of nature, places of engaging with nature and associations of nature contact with respect to improvements to perceived stress and symptom experience among breast cancer patients during the pandemic. We conducted a cross-sectional survey of people diagnosed with breast cancer using ResearchMatch (n = 56) in July 2020 (the first wave of COVID-19). In this US-based, predominantly white, affluent, highly educated, female sample, we found that, on average, participants were first diagnosed with breast cancer at 54 years old and at stage 2 or 3. Eighteen percent of participants experienced disruptions in their cancer care due to the pandemic. As expected, activities in public places significantly decreased as well, including use of parks/trails and botanical gardens. In contrast, spending time near home, on the porch or in the backyard significantly increased. Also observed were significant increases in indoor activities involving passive nature contact, such as watching birds through a window, listening to birdsong, and smelling rain or plants. Decreased usage of parks/trails was significantly associated with higher stress (Coef = -2.30, p = 0.030) and increased usage of the backyard/porch was significantly associated with lower stress (Coef = -2.69, p = 0.032), lower symptom distress (Coef = -0.80, p = 0.063) and lower symptom severity (Coef = -0.52, p = 0.009). The most commonly reported alternatives to outdoor engagement with nature were watching nature through a window (84%), followed by looking at images of nature (71%), and listening to nature through a window (66%). The least commonly enjoyed alternative was virtual reality of nature scenes (25%). While outdoor contact with nature away from home decreased, participants still found ways to experience the restorative benefits of nature in and around their home. Of special interest in planning interventions was the fact that actual or real nature was preferred over that experienced through technology. This could be an artifact of our sample, or could represent a desire to be in touch with the "real world" during a health crisis. Nature contact may represent a flexible strategy to decrease stress and improve symptom experience among patients with cancer, particularly during public health crises or disruptions to cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber L. Pearson
- Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA;
| | - Victoria Breeze
- Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA;
| | - Aaron Reuben
- Department of Psychology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA;
| | - Gwen Wyatt
- College of Nursing, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA;
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Meuwese D, Maas J, Krabbendam L, Dijkstra K. Viewing Nature Lets Your Mind Run Free: Three Experiments about the Influence of Viewing a Nature Video on Cognitive Coping with Psychological Distress. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18168842. [PMID: 34444590 PMCID: PMC8392410 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18168842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Viewing nature has restorative qualities that might help people cope with their personal struggles. Three lab experiments (N = 506) studied whether environment (nature vs. built) influences cognitive coping with psychological distress. Psychological distress was induced with an autobiographical recall task about serious regret, whereafter participants were randomly assigned to view a nature or built video. Cognitive coping (i) Quantity, (ii) Content, and (iii) Quality were hereafter assessed as well as extent and vividness of the regretful memory during the video. Results showed a higher cognitive coping Quantity (Study 1 and 3) and a higher cognitive coping Quality (All studies) for the nature (vs. built) condition. Regarding cognitive coping Content, results varied across the studies. Additionally, participants reported to have thought about the experienced psychological distress to a greater extent while viewing the nature (vs. built) video. Yet they did rate viewing nature as more relaxing. We propose a two-step pathway as an underlying mechanism of restoration. In the first step the capacity for directed attention replenishes. Secondly, this renewed capacity is directed towards internal processes, creating the optimal setting for reflection. Hence, viewing nature allows people to truly process whatever is occupying their minds, which is ultimately relieving and beneficial for mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daphne Meuwese
- Department of Clinical, Neuro and Developmental Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 BT Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (J.M.); (L.K.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Jolanda Maas
- Department of Clinical, Neuro and Developmental Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 BT Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (J.M.); (L.K.)
| | - Lydia Krabbendam
- Department of Clinical, Neuro and Developmental Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 BT Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (J.M.); (L.K.)
| | - Karin Dijkstra
- Research Group Nursing, Saxion University of Applied Sciences, 7513 AB Enschede, The Netherlands;
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Remme RP, Frumkin H, Guerry AD, King AC, Mandle L, Sarabu C, Bratman GN, Giles-Corti B, Hamel P, Han B, Hicks JL, James P, Lawler JJ, Lindahl T, Liu H, Lu Y, Oosterbroek B, Paudel B, Sallis JF, Schipperijn J, Sosič R, de Vries S, Wheeler BW, Wood SA, Wu T, Daily GC. An ecosystem service perspective on urban nature, physical activity, and health. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:e2018472118. [PMID: 33990458 PMCID: PMC8179134 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2018472118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Nature underpins human well-being in critical ways, especially in health. Nature provides pollination of nutritious crops, purification of drinking water, protection from floods, and climate security, among other well-studied health benefits. A crucial, yet challenging, research frontier is clarifying how nature promotes physical activity for its many mental and physical health benefits, particularly in densely populated cities with scarce and dwindling access to nature. Here we frame this frontier by conceptually developing a spatial decision-support tool that shows where, how, and for whom urban nature promotes physical activity, to inform urban greening efforts and broader health assessments. We synthesize what is known, present a model framework, and detail the model steps and data needs that can yield generalizable spatial models and an effective tool for assessing the urban nature-physical activity relationship. Current knowledge supports an initial model that can distinguish broad trends and enrich urban planning, spatial policy, and public health decisions. New, iterative research and application will reveal the importance of different types of urban nature, the different subpopulations who will benefit from it, and nature's potential contribution to creating more equitable, green, livable cities with active inhabitants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roy P Remme
- Natural Capital Project, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305;
- Institute of Environmental Sciences, Leiden University, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Howard Frumkin
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195
| | - Anne D Guerry
- Natural Capital Project, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
- School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195
| | - Abby C King
- Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
- Stanford Prevention Research Center, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Lisa Mandle
- Natural Capital Project, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Chethan Sarabu
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Gregory N Bratman
- School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195
| | - Billie Giles-Corti
- Healthy Liveable Cities Group, Centre for Urban Research, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University, 3000 Melbourne, Australia
| | - Perrine Hamel
- Natural Capital Project, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
- Asian School of the Environment, Nanyang Technological University, 639798 Singapore
| | - Baolong Han
- State Key Laboratory of Urban and Regional Ecology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100875 Beijing, China
| | - Jennifer L Hicks
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Peter James
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, MA 02215
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02215
| | - Joshua J Lawler
- School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195
| | - Therese Lindahl
- Beijer Institute of Ecological Economics, Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, 104 05 Stockholm, Sweden
- Stockholm Resilience Centre, Stockholm University, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hongxiao Liu
- Key Laboratory of Vegetation Restoration and Management of Degraded Ecosystems, South China Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 510650 Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Lu
- Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Bram Oosterbroek
- Maastricht Sustainability Institute, Maastricht University, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Bibek Paudel
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy & Asthma Research, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - James F Sallis
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0631
- Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Jasper Schipperijn
- Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Rok Sosič
- Department of Computer Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Sjerp de Vries
- Cultural Geography/Wageningen Environmental Research, Wageningen University & Research, 6700 AA Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Benedict W Wheeler
- European Centre for Environment & Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Knowledge Spa, Royal Cornwall Hospital, TR1 3HD Truro, United Kingdom
| | - Spencer A Wood
- School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195
| | - Tong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Urban and Regional Ecology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100875 Beijing, China
| | - Gretchen C Daily
- Natural Capital Project, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
- Department of Biological Sciences, Woods Institute for the Environment, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
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Pearson AL, Clevenger KA, Horton TH, Gardiner JC, Asana V, Dougherty BV, Pfeiffer KA. Feelings of safety during daytime walking: associations with mental health, physical activity and cardiometabolic health in high vacancy, low-income neighborhoods in Detroit, Michigan. Int J Health Geogr 2021; 20:19. [PMID: 33941196 PMCID: PMC8091672 DOI: 10.1186/s12942-021-00271-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Individuals living in low-income neighborhoods have disproportionately high rates of obesity, Type-2 diabetes, and cardiometabolic conditions. Perceived safety in one's neighborhood may influence stress and physical activity, with cascading effects on cardiometabolic health. METHODS In this study, we examined relationships among feelings of safety while walking during the day and mental health [perceived stress (PSS), depression score], moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (PA), Body Mass Index (BMI), and hemoglobin A1C (A1C) in low-income, high-vacancy neighborhoods in Detroit, Michigan. We recruited 69 adults who wore accelerometers for one week and completed a survey on demographics, mental health, and neighborhood perceptions. Anthropometrics were collected and A1C was measured using A1CNow test strips. We compiled spatial data on vacant buildings and lots across the city. We fitted conventional and multilevel regression models to predict each outcome, using perceived safety during daytime walking as the independent variable of interest and individual or both individual and neighborhood-level covariates (e.g., number of vacant lots). Last, we examined trends in neighborhood features according to perceived safety. RESULTS In this predominantly African American sample (91%), 47% felt unsafe during daytime walking. Feelings of perceived safety significantly predicted PSS (β = - 2.34, p = 0.017), depression scores (β = - 4.22, p = 0.006), and BMI (β = - 2.87, p = 0.01), after full adjustment. For PA, we detected a significant association for sex only. For A1C we detected significant associations with blighted lots near the home. Those feeling unsafe lived in neighborhoods with higher park area and number of blighted lots. CONCLUSION Future research is needed to assess a critical pathway through which neighborhood features, including vacant or poor-quality green spaces, may affect obesity-via stress reduction and concomitant effects on cardiometabolic health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber L Pearson
- Department of Geography, Environment & Spatial Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | | | - Teresa H Horton
- Department of Anthropology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Joseph C Gardiner
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | | | - Benjamin V Dougherty
- Department of Geography, Environment & Spatial Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Karin A Pfeiffer
- Department of Kinesiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA.
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Filgueira TO, Castoldi A, Santos LER, de Amorim GJ, de Sousa Fernandes MS, Anastácio WDLDN, Campos EZ, Santos TM, Souto FO. The Relevance of a Physical Active Lifestyle and Physical Fitness on Immune Defense: Mitigating Disease Burden, With Focus on COVID-19 Consequences. Front Immunol 2021; 12:587146. [PMID: 33613573 PMCID: PMC7892446 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.587146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a fast spreading virus leading to the development of Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19). Severe and critical cases are characterized by damage to the respiratory system, endothelial inflammation, and multiple organ failure triggered by an excessive production of proinflammatory cytokines, culminating in the high number of deaths all over the world. Sedentarism induces worse, continuous, and progressive consequences to health. On the other hand, physical activity provides benefits to health and improves low-grade systemic inflammation. The aim of this review is to elucidate the effects of physical activity in physical fitness, immune defense, and its contribution to mitigate the severe inflammatory response mediated by SARS-CoV-2. Physical exercise is an effective therapeutic strategy to mitigate the consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection. In this sense, studies have shown that acute physical exercise induces the production of myokines that are secreted in tissues and into the bloodstream, supporting its systemic modulatory effect. Therefore, maintaining physical activity influence balance the immune system and increases immune vigilance, and also might promote potent effects against the consequences of infectious diseases and chronic diseases associated with the development of severe forms of COVID-19. Protocols to maintain exercise practice are suggested and have been strongly established, such as home-based exercise (HBE) and outdoor-based exercise (OBE). In this regard, HBE might help to reduce levels of physical inactivity, bed rest, and sitting time, impacting on adherence to physical activity, promoting all the benefits related to exercise, and attracting patients in different stages of treatment for COVID-19. In parallel, OBE must improve health, but also prevent and mitigate COVID-19 severe outcomes in all populations. In conclusion, HBE or OBE models can be a potent strategy to mitigate the progress of infection, and a coadjutant therapy for COVID-19 at all ages and different chronic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Angela Castoldi
- Keizo Asami Immunopathology Laboratory, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
| | - Lucas Eduardo R. Santos
- Pós Graduação em Educação Física, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
- Pós Graduação em Neuropsiquiatria e Ciências do Comportamento, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
| | - Geraldo José de Amorim
- Keizo Asami Immunopathology Laboratory, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
- Serviço de Nefrologia do Hospital das Clínicas, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
| | - Matheus Santos de Sousa Fernandes
- Pós Graduação em Educação Física, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
- Pós Graduação em Neuropsiquiatria e Ciências do Comportamento, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
| | | | | | - Tony Meireles Santos
- Pós Graduação em Educação Física, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
| | - Fabrício Oliveira Souto
- Keizo Asami Immunopathology Laboratory, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
- Núcleo de Ciências da Vida, Centro Acadêmico do Agreste, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Caruaru, Brazil
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Urban Emotion Sensing Beyond 'Affective Capture': Advancing Critical Interdisciplinary Methods. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17239003. [PMID: 33287188 PMCID: PMC7731212 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17239003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The use of mobile sensor methodologies in urban analytics to study 'urban emotions' is currently outpacing the science required to rigorously interpret the data generated. Interdisciplinary research on 'urban stress' could help inform urban wellbeing policies relating to healthier commuting and alleviation of work stress. The purpose of this paper is to address-through methodological experimentation-ethical, political and conceptual issues identified by critical social scientists with regards to emotion tracking, wearables and data analytics. We aim to encourage more dialogue between the critical approach and applied environmental health research. The definition of stress is not unambiguous or neutral and is mediated by the very technologies we use for research. We outline an integrative methodology in which we combine pilot field research using biosensing technologies, a novel method for identifying 'moments of stress' in a laboratory setting, psychometric surveys and narrative interviews on workplace and commuter stress in urban environments.
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17
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Burr V, King N, Heckmann M. The qualitative analysis of repertory grid data: Interpretive Clustering. QUALITATIVE RESEARCH IN PSYCHOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/14780887.2020.1794088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Viv Burr
- Department of Psychology, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, UK
| | - Nigel King
- Department of Psychology, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, UK
| | - Mark Heckmann
- Department of Psychology, Bremen University, Germany
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18
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Effects of Forest Therapy on Health Promotion among Middle-Aged Women: Focusing on Physiological Indicators. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17124348. [PMID: 32560522 PMCID: PMC7344639 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17124348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Women experience more stress in middle age than in other life stages, and health in middle age is vital, because it influences the quality of life in old age. In this study, the effects of a forest therapy program on physiological changes in 53 middle-aged women (divided into two groups) who lived in the city were examined. One group participated in a three-day program in the forest, followed by three days in the city; the other group participated in a three-day program in the city, followed by three days in the forest. Forest experiments were conducted in a “healing forest,” and urban experiments were conducted near a university campus. Blood tests were performed to evaluate the physiological effects of forest therapy. Differences in serotonin levels and vitamin D levels were verified before and after the forest (experimental group) and urban (control group) programs through paired t-tests. Statistically significant increases in serotonin levels were noted for participants in the forest program; vitamin D levels also increased, but not by statistically significant values. The findings of this study verify that forest therapy programs promote health among middle-aged women, and may prevent disease and improve quality of life.
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de Brito JN, Pope ZC, Mitchell NR, Schneider IE, Larson JM, Horton TH, Pereira MA. The effect of green walking on heart rate variability: A pilot crossover study. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2020; 185:109408. [PMID: 32220745 PMCID: PMC7877549 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.109408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Revised: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the effects of regular walking in green and suburban environments on heart rate variability (HRV) and blood pressure (BP) in middle-aged adults. Twenty-three adults participated in a non-randomized crossover experiment comprised of once-weekly 50-min moderate-intensity walking sessions. Separated by a two-week washout period, participants walked for three weeks in each of two treatment conditions (green and suburban) in a local arboretum and suburban sidewalks of Chaska, MN. Eleven participants completed green walking first and 12 suburban walking first. Walks were split into 15-min intra-walk phases, with phases representing each walk's beginning, middle, and final 15-min. Repeated measures linear mixed models evaluated (1) HRV phase differences between treatments and HRV change within treatments, and (2) pre- and post-walk BP differences between treatments and pre-to post-walk BP changes. Intra-walk phase analyses revealed higher HRV during green walking vs. suburban walking during phase 2 (p < 0.0001) and phase 3 (p = 0.02). Less HRV reduction was seen between intra-walk phases 1 and 2 during green vs. suburban walking (p = 0.02). Pre-to post-walk changes revealed decreased mean systolic BP for both green (p = 0.0002) and suburban (p = 0.003) walking conditions, but not for diastolic BP. Post-walk BP results were similar after both green walking and suburban walking. In summary, walking sessions in a green environment elicited greater beneficial HRV responses compared to a suburban environment. Additionally, walking in either environment, green or suburban, promoted reductions in systolic BP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junia N de Brito
- Division of Epidemiology & Community Health, University of Minnesota, 1300 S 2nd St, Suite 300, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
| | - Zachary C Pope
- Division of Epidemiology & Community Health, University of Minnesota, 1300 S 2nd St, Suite 300, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
| | - Nathan R Mitchell
- Division of Epidemiology & Community Health, University of Minnesota, 1300 S 2nd St, Suite 300, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
| | - Ingrid E Schneider
- Department of Forest Resources, University of Minnesota, 1530 Cleveland Ave North, Suite 301b, St. Paul, MN, 55108, USA.
| | - Jean M Larson
- Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, Bakken Center for Spirituality & Healing, University of Minnesota, 3675 Arboretum Drive, Chaska, MN, 55318, USA.
| | - Teresa H Horton
- Department of Anthropology, Northwestern University, 1819 Hinman Avenue, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA.
| | - Mark A Pereira
- Division of Epidemiology & Community Health, University of Minnesota, 1300 S 2nd St, Suite 300, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
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20
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Pearson AL, Pfeiffer KA, Gardiner J, Horton T, Buxton RT, Hunter RF, Breeze V, McDade T. Study of active neighborhoods in Detroit (StAND): study protocol for a natural experiment evaluating the health benefits of ecological restoration of parks. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:638. [PMID: 32380967 PMCID: PMC7204306 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-08716-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individuals living in deprived inner cities have disproportionately high rates of cancers, Type 2 diabetes and obesity, which have stress- and physical inactivity-related etiologies. This study aims to quantify effects of ecological park restoration on physical activity, stress and cardio-metabolic health outcomes. METHODS The Study of Active Neighborhoods in Detroit is a quasi-experimental, longitudinal panel natural experiment with two conditions (restored park intervention (INT) and control (CNT)) and annual measurements at baseline and 3-years post-restoration. Individuals (sampled within 500 m of an INT/CNT park) serve as the unit of analysis. Restoration (n = 4 parks) involves replacing non-native plants and turf with native plants; creating trails; posting signage; and leading community stewardship events. The CNT condition (n = 5) is an unmaintained park, matched to INT based on specified neighborhood conditions. Recruitment involves several avenues, with a retention goal of 450 participants. Park measures include plant/avian diversity; usage of the park (SOPARC); signs of care; auditory environment recordings; and visual greenness using 360 imagery. Health outcomes include device-based physical activity behavior (primary outcome); salivary cortisol (secondary outcome); and several downstream health outcomes. Exposure to the INT will be assessed through visual contact time and time spent in the park using GPS data. Changes in health outcomes between years and INT versus CNT will be tested using generalized linear (mixed) models. DISCUSSION Our study will examine whether restored urban greenspaces increase physical activity and lower stress, with public health planning implications, where small changes in neighborhood greenspaces may have large health benefits in low-income neighborhoods. STUDY REGISTRATION Registration: OSF Preregistration registered March 31, 2020. Accessible from https://osf.io/surx7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber L. Pearson
- Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences, Michigan State University, 673 Auditorium Road, East Lansing, MI 48824 USA
| | - Karin A. Pfeiffer
- Department of Kinesiology, Michigan State University, 27R Intramural Rec Sports- Circle, 308 West Circle Drive, East Lansing, MI 48824 USA
| | - Joseph Gardiner
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Michigan State University, 909 Wilson Road, Room B601, East Lansing, MI 48824 USA
| | - Teresa Horton
- Department of Anthropology, Northwestern University, 1810 Hinman Ave, Evanston, IL 60208 USA
| | - Rachel T. Buxton
- Department of Biology, Carleton University, 209 Nesbitt Biology Building, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6 Canada
| | - Ruth F. Hunter
- Centre for Public Health, Queen’s University Belfast, University Road, Belfast, BT7 1NN Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Victoria Breeze
- Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences, Michigan State University, 673 Auditorium Road, East Lansing, MI 48824 USA
| | - Thomas McDade
- Department of Anthropology, Northwestern University, 1810 Hinman Ave, Evanston, IL 60208 USA
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Litleskare S, E. MacIntyre T, Calogiuri G. Enable, Reconnect and Augment: A New ERA of Virtual Nature Research and Application. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17051738. [PMID: 32155911 PMCID: PMC7084893 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17051738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Being exposed to natural environments is associated with improved health and well-being, as these environments are believed to promote feelings of “being away” from everyday struggles, positive emotional reactions and stress reduction. Despite these positive effects, humanity is becoming increasingly more distanced from nature due to societal changes, such as increased urbanization and the reduced accessibility of natural environments. Technology is also partly to blame, as research suggests that people replace nature contact with increased screen time. In this cross-section between nature and technology, we find technological nature which is progressing towards a point where we may be capable of simulating exposure to real nature. Concerns have been raised regarding this technology, as it is feared it will replace real nature. However, research suggests that virtual nature may have a more positive impact on society than a mere replacement of real nature, and this review propose several areas where virtual nature may be a beneficial addition to actual nature (Enable), help people reconnect with the real natural world (Reconnect) and “boost” human-nature interactions (Augment). Based on the current research and theoretical framework, this review proposes guidelines for future research within these areas, with the aim of advancing the field by producing high quality research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sigbjørn Litleskare
- Faculty of social and health sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, 2406 Elverum, Norway;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +47-62430218
| | - Tadhg E. MacIntyre
- GO GREEN Initiative, Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, V94 T9PX Limerick, Ireland;
| | - Giovanna Calogiuri
- Faculty of social and health sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, 2406 Elverum, Norway;
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Wendelboe-Nelson C, Kelly S, Kennedy M, Cherrie JW. A Scoping Review Mapping Research on Green Space and Associated Mental Health Benefits. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:E2081. [PMID: 31212860 PMCID: PMC6616579 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16122081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Revised: 06/01/2019] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a growing interest in research investigating the association between green space (GS) and mental health and wellbeing (HWB), in order to understand the underlying mechanisms. Accordingly, there is a need to map the literature and create an overview of the research. METHODS A scoping review approach was used to map literature on GS, including context and co-exposures (the GS exposome), and their associations with mental HWB. The review considers mental HWB definitions and measurements and how GS is characterized. Furthermore, the review aims to identify knowledge gaps and make recommendations for future research. RESULTS We identified a great diversity in study designs, definitions, outcome measures, consideration of the totality of the GS exposome, and reporting of results. Around 70% of the 263 reviewed studies reported a positive association between some aspect of GS and HWB. However, there is a limited amount of research using randomized controlled crossover trails (RCTs) and mixed methods and an abundance of qualitative subjective research. CONCLUSIONS The discords between study designs, definitions, and the reporting of results makes it difficult to aggregate the evidence and identify any potential causal mechanisms. We propose key points to consider when defining and quantifying GS and make recommendations for reporting on research investigating GS and mental HWB. This review highlights a need for large well-designed RCTs that reliably measure the GS exposome in relation to mental HWB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Wendelboe-Nelson
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Biophysics and Bioengineering, Heriot Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, UK.
| | - Sarah Kelly
- Information Services, Heriot Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, UK.
| | - Marion Kennedy
- Information Services, Heriot Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, UK.
| | - John W Cherrie
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Biophysics and Bioengineering, Heriot Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, UK.
- Centre for Human Exposure Science, Institute of Occupational Medicine, Research Avenue North, Edinburgh EH14 4AP, UK.
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Psycho-Physiological Stress Recovery in Outdoor Nature-Based Interventions: A Systematic Review of the Past Eight Years of Research. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16101711. [PMID: 31100773 PMCID: PMC6572302 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16101711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2019] [Revised: 05/02/2019] [Accepted: 05/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Background: In modern, urban daily life, natural environments are increasingly recognized as an important resource for stress recovery and general well-being. Aim: the present review aims to provide an overview and synthesis of the past eight years’ research into the psycho-physiological effects of outdoor nature-based interventions, related to stress recovery. Method: a structured search was performed in seven databases, returning 5618 articles. Removal of duplicates and initial screening gave a total of 95 studies. After full text reading, 36 studies were included in the assessment. Results: most of the psychological outcomes were related to different emotional measures. The synthesis of the results points towards outdoor, nature-based exposure having a positive effect on different emotional parameters, related to stress relief. The studies into physiological measures showed more equivocal results. Conclusion: the research, conducted over the past eight years, into outdoor, nature-based exposure has now attained a sound evidence base for psychological and especially emotional effects, but the evidence base for physiological effects within this timeframe shows a great degree of heterogeneity. Limitations: interpretation of the results is limited by the review only covering the past eight years’ research on the subject.
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24
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Identifying and resisting the technological drift: green space, blue space and ecotherapy. SOCIAL THEORY & HEALTH 2019. [DOI: 10.1057/s41285-019-00099-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Coen SE. Connecting qualitative research on exercise and environment to public health agendas requires an equity lens. Health Place 2018; 53:264-267. [DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2017.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2017] [Revised: 09/13/2017] [Accepted: 09/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Calogiuri G, Litleskare S, Fagerheim KA, Rydgren TL, Brambilla E, Thurston M. Experiencing Nature through Immersive Virtual Environments: Environmental Perceptions, Physical Engagement, and Affective Responses during a Simulated Nature Walk. Front Psychol 2018; 8:2321. [PMID: 29410635 PMCID: PMC5787081 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2017.02321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
By combining physical activity and exposure to nature, green exercise can provide additional health benefits compared to physical activity alone. Immersive Virtual Environments (IVE) have emerged as a potentially valuable supplement to environmental and behavioral research, and might also provide new approaches to green exercise promotion. However, it is unknown to what extent green exercise in IVE can provide psychophysiological responses similar to those experienced in real natural environments. In this study, 26 healthy adults underwent three experimental conditions: nature walk, sitting-IVE, and treadmill-IVE. The nature walk took place on a paved trail along a large river. In the IVE conditions, the participants wore a head-mounted display with headphones reproducing a 360° video and audio of the nature walk, either sitting on a chair or walking on a manually driven treadmill. Measurements included environmental perceptions (presence and perceived environmental restorativeness - PER), physical engagement (walking speed, heart rate, and perceived exertion), and affective responses (enjoyment and affect). Additionally, qualitative information was collected through open-ended questions. The participants rated the IVEs with satisfactory levels of 'being there' and 'sense of reality,' but also reported discomforts such as 'flatness,' 'movement lag' and 'cyber sickness.' With equivalent heart rate and walking speed, participants reported higher perceived exertion in the IVEs than in the nature walk. The nature walk was associated with high enjoyment and enhanced affect. However, despite equivalent ratings of PER in the nature walk and in the IVEs, the latter were perceived as less enjoyable and gave rise to a poorer affect. Presence and PER did not differ between the two IVEs, although in the treadmill-IVE the negative affective responses had slightly smaller magnitude than in the sitting-IVE. In both the IVEs, the negative affective responses were mainly associated with cyber sickness, whereas PER was positively associated with enjoyment. From the qualitative analysis, it emerged that poor postural control and lack of a holistic sensory experience can also hinder immersion in the IVE. The results indicate that IVE technology might in future be a useful instrument in green exercise research and promotion, but only if image quality and cyber sickness can be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Calogiuri
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Social and Health Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Elverum, Norway
| | - Sigbjørn Litleskare
- Inland Norway School of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Social and Health Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Elverum, Norway
| | - Kaia A Fagerheim
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Social and Health Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Elverum, Norway
| | - Tore L Rydgren
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Social and Health Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Elverum, Norway.,IT Department, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Elverum, Norway
| | - Elena Brambilla
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Social and Health Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Elverum, Norway.,Department of Biomedical Science for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Miranda Thurston
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Social and Health Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Elverum, Norway
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