In today's lecture, we'll discuss the impact of urban green spaces on mental health. Recent studies have shown that even small parks in city centers can significantly reduce stress levels. However, the key factor is not just the size of the space, but its accessibility. For example, a study in Melbourne found that residents living within 300 meters of a park reported lower anxiety, but only if the park had benches and walking paths. Interestingly, the presence of water features, like ponds or fountains, had an even stronger effect than trees. So, when planning new green areas, city officials should prioritize adding seating and water elements over simply planting more grass.