We’re back with another Benefits of Parks post for Columbia Valley’s residents! So far, we’ve covered the benefits of parks for elders and adults with no children. If you haven’t already checked those posts out, they are on our website, cv-prd.org, under “District News/Events.” Each blog post is also being posted to our Facebook page on Sundays! This week we will be covering the benefits of parks for young adults. For the purposes of this blog post, we are considering young adults to be between the ages of 18 and 24.
Parks can reduce stress and increase one’s ability to cope.
Most young adults face new stressors in the journey of growing up and becoming independent. This time in life is typically filled with new experiences, personal growth, conflicts, and stress that can sometimes be overwhelming. Stress from major life changes such as paying bills, getting a job, and providing for yourself can lead to chronic mental fatigue. Luckily, community parks can help relieve stress and increase the capacity to cope. Researchers have found that when stressed young adults have access to green space, they are less likely to procrastinate and more likely to feel like their issues were less severe and easier to handle. When life can be so overwhelming, getting outside into a community park to breathe and enjoy the scenery is just what young adults need.
Parks provide opportunities to find new passions.
CVPRD is looking to bring a variety of different kinds of parks to the community. Numerous types of parks opens unique opportunities for young adults to find new passions. One example would be to start a community garden. Gardening is a great way to reduce stress and provide fresh produce. Growing your food is rewarding; young adults may feel an increase in self-confidence from this experience. Other types of parks with paving or trails may invite young adults to try running, biking, roller skating, or skateboarding regularly. Regardless of what passion they choose, young adults will undoubtedly benefit mentally and physically from having a designated space to get outside in your community.
The information from this blog post comes from the source link below. If you’re looking to learn more about some of the health benefits of parks, feel free to check it out!
Columbia Valley Park & Recreation District 