Green spaces and our overall health

With increased urbanisation, more people are living in areas without access to nature. By 2030 over 60% of the world’s population is expected to live in urban areas, which is bound to make access to natural environments even more difficult. These natural environments are described as green spaces found in both the countryside and in urban settings, such as parks, gardens, and in some cases even potted plants.

Research has shown a positive link between health benefits and having access to green spaces. This has led to an increased interest in exploring how greener neighbourhoods are better at promoting wellness, with findings providing evidence that access to natural spaces is an important factor in fighting some of the major threats to public health, such as depression, stress, and coronary diseases.

Stress can impact well-being over time, as the activation and increase of stress hormones, increases blood pressure, and other physical responses to perceived stress have a long-term impact on health, with an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular disorders- the leading cause of death and disability in the world.

While the mechanisms that underlie the connection between health benefits and green spaces still remain unclear, it is theorized that natural environments provide spaces where individuals can be physically active (e.g. they encourage walking, running, cycling), and facilitate social interaction, two important factors that contribute to good mental health.

As the percentage of older adults grows, research has begun to study what kind of environments promote healthy ageing. Nature provides key components for our wellbeing, as green spaces can lead to opportunities for the older generations to enhance their physical and mental wellbeing, also aiding in strengthening social connections.

With the current available evidence suggesting a positive relationship between overall health and green spaces, FitQuid wants to motivate its users to hike, visit landmarks, and explore local landscapes, in addition to making the best use of the gardens and parks that are available. FitQuid has set out to find a solution that promotes physical activity and community building by motivating people to utilise green spaces, by setting goals and completing achievements. By gamifying everyday activities we want to reduce sedentary habits, and strive to help people live their healthiest and happiest life.

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