Important Reasons Why You Should Live Close to Trees ...

Who’d have thought it! Trees can actually make us happier. A study in London found that antidepressants were prescribed significantly less in places where there were more trees around. And why is this do we think? Well, trees are said to have a positive influence on our mental state.

In Japan, people go ‘forest bathing’. This practice involves people walking among the trees to boost their immune system and to spend quiet time absorbing the wisdom of ancient trees. Many meditate beneath the trees in an effort to have their negative energies absorbed and replaced with happy, positive and healthy energy. So if you’re feeling down, go and relax under a tree.

Trees close by to your home on hot sultry days in summer will be much appreciated. You will be able to go outside in the heat of the day and stay shaded by trees. Take a rest under a big tree and read a book when it is too hot to be directly under the sun’s rays.

In a study by Geoffrey Donovan, he found that areas, where there were plenty of trees, had a lower crime rate. Things are said to be safer in areas where there are plenty of trees.

In another separate study by Geoffrey Donovan, he looked at death rates in the areas where there was a high tree population that had been decimated by the emerald ash-borer. He found that as more trees died, the death rate in humans from cardiovascular and respiratory diseases increased. It is said that living around trees can help people who suffer from respiratory symptoms.

Enjoying nature and living amongst trees is not only therapeutic, but it is also good for our health. We need to maintain and spread the word of the importance of healthy green trees in our environment, whether we live in the inner city or in the countryside. City authorities need to realize their importance and create more green space when they are building new developments. Cramming as many houses in an estate may be good for the bank balance of the developer, but how about our health and happiness? We should encourage developments to include green areas in built-up housing estates to promote our happiness and wellbeing.

If you work all day in an office and don’t have time to get out and enjoy the green spaces, try bringing plants into your office. When you do get to go for a walk, either at the weekend or on your lunch break, chose a route that takes you through the green spaces, such as parks or nature reserves with trees.

If you are lucky enough to have a back garden consider planting a couple of trees and getting green-fingered on the weekends. Being outside and amongst nature is sure to make you feel calm, happy and healthy.