How Urban Nature Transforms Mental Well-Being in Cities
Urban nature plays a crucial role in enhancing mental well-being, according to new research. Dr. Shih-Han Hung from National Taiwan University (NTU) has proposed a model explaining how natural elements in cities benefit psychological health. His work highlights the importance of clear nature cues and biophilic design in urban planning.
Dr. Hung’s team examined how different types of urban nature affect people’s well-being. Urban forests were found to boost vitality the most, while streams and parks helped restore attention. The study also introduced a dual-path model, linking psychological benefits to two factors: biophilic design and restorative experiences.
The findings confirm that well-planned urban nature can enhance mental health and resilience. Dr. Hung’s model and teaching methods provide practical ways to integrate nature into city design. Further studies may refine how much and what type of nature exposure works best for urban populations.
