In today's lecture, we'll discuss the impact of urban green spaces on mental health. A recent study followed 1,000 adults over five years. Participants who visited parks at least once a week reported 22% lower levels of stress hormones. Interestingly, the duration of each visit mattered less than the frequency. Even short visits of 10 minutes were beneficial. However, the effect was stronger for those who engaged in physical activity, like walking or cycling, rather than just sitting. The study also noted that the presence of water features, such as ponds or fountains, amplified the positive effects. So, for city planners, the key takeaway is to prioritize accessible, frequent-use spaces over large, distant parks.