Benefits of living near green space

We are rich.

Rich in the sense that we’re blessed to live in an area with such dramatic and breath-taking scenery. No matter where you live in South East Wales, you’re only a short journey away from the coast or mountains. It won’t surprise you to hear that the great outdoors can boost your wellbeing by reducing stress and anxiety. But you don’t need to go on an epic trip or climb Pen y Fan to reap the benefits, even just living close to green space can help.

Green spaces play a vital role in healthy living but they have also been linked to benefits related to recovery from illness. One of the main advantages of living near green space is that people tend to be more active. With the countryside, park or woodland on your doorstep, you’re more likely to use these green spaces for your daily exercise routine, whether that’s walking the dog, enjoying a gentle stroll or making dens in the woods. It’s all part of a healthy lifestyle.

To help reduce stress people are often advised to get out in the fresh air, so neighbourhoods near green spaces are associated with healthier cortisol levels. Green spaces have also been linked to lower blood pressure and improved mental health. Although initially you may think that living near green spaces has primarily physical benefits, you could argue that mental health is more reliant on regular exposure to green spaces.

When it comes to finding somewhere to live, being close to a green space is always an attractive bonus for potential buyers and tenants. Here are an example of local beauty spots and green spaces that are drawing in buyers at the moment.

Caerleon – Since the cycle path has been reconditioned you are able to walk, cycle or run from Caerleon to Newport city centre. The path is well lit and regularly used by the locals as quick access to the village, part of a daily run, or to walk the dog. As you stroll along the path you may spot a few rabbits near the back of St. Cadoc’s Hospital and, when in season, you can pick blackberries from the bushes that run alongside the railway.

Rogerstone – The Monmouthshire Canal runs through much of South Wales connecting our towns and villages and providing a different form of green space for us to enjoy. Fourteen Locks is a great place to start, finish or just rest during a stroll through the local historic canals and locks.

St. Julians – The Glebelands is an open parkland bounded by the area of St. Julians and the River Usk. This large area is home to several local football and rugby teams as well as two children’s play areas, but for dog walkers this is your little piece of heaven. Just a short walk or drive from your home you can take in some fresh air whilst you walk the circuit of the Glebelands with a cycle path leading into the city centre.

Cwmbran – Come rain, snow or sunshine, the Boating in Cwmbran is always full of people. Perfect for dog walkers and families, the lake offers a route that allows your dog to explore and your child to race around on their bike whilst waving to the ducks and fishermen. The park and traditional café serving chips, ice cream and coffee make this a popular place to visit, not just for locals but also those from further afield.

According to a study published by the Environmental Research journal, people with greater access to green spaces were also more likely to report good overall health. With today’s fast pace of life, it can be easy to forget the health benefits that await us just outside our front doors. Why not take a walk around your neighbourhood this weekend and remind yourself of the beauty that surrounds you?

If you’re looking for a home to complement your healthy lifestyle, contact our team on 01633 870777 or visit us online.