A recent issue of the publication Runners World ran an article citing a study out of Helsinki with new research on the physical and psychological benefits of running in urban parks in comparison to urban streets.
The study revolved around 77 people in three parts of Helsinki: an urban park, an urban wooded area and the city center. Researchers measured the moods and cortisol levels of participants. Cortisol is a hormone released in response to stress, and appeared lower in the saliva of those who were tested after having ran in the park and wooded environments. Those tests reaffirmed the mood levels reported by the study subjects, who claimed elevated feelings of restoration, improved moods, creativity and vitality.
Researchers concluded, "Findings suggest that even short-term visits to nature areas have positive effects on perceived stress relief compared to built-up environment." The study enforced the belief espoused by Runners World in booking hotels near parks whenever possible "so that running can best work its restorative magic on your psyche when you're travelling."
Read the original article here.