The Health Benefits of Your Home's Outdoor Space

In today's American households, it is normal for the backyard space to be considered an extension of the interior living space. Although there are practical and monetary benefits to keeping a great outdoor space, most people don't realize the health benefits it can provide.

The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) recently listed reasons to keep an enjoyable outdoor space.

1. The stress level of a child can fall quickly upon seeing green spaces. First hand experiences with nature can make you a happier and healthier person.
2. Who said getting down and dirty is bad? Mycobacterium vaccae in soil can have a similar effect on neurons as prozac.
3. Mental health improves as you remain near living landscapes. Research has shown that relocating to greener areas produces an immediate improvement in mental health.
4. When exposed to greenery, children gain focus and working memory benefits. Natural settings are useful in lowering attention deficit/hyperactivitydisorder (ADHD) symptoms.
5. Running and walking in nature versus an urban setting produced lowered anxiety, and manufactured cognitive benefits and higher working memory performance. Due to a process called evapotranspiration, grass is up to 31 cooler than asphalt and 20 cooler than bare ground.
6. Living landscapes assist in keeping kids and pets healthier. Playing outside builds fitness levels and results in healthy, active bodies.
7. 50 sqft of lawn produces enough oxygen each day for up to four people. It also reduces the code red effect because grass scrubspollutants from the air we breathe.

Source:The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI)