In today's lecture, we'll discuss the impact of urban green spaces on mental health. Recent studies have shown that access to parks and gardens can significantly reduce stress levels, especially in densely populated cities. Interestingly, the size of the green space matters less than its proximity to residential areas. A 2021 survey in London found that people living within a five-minute walk of a small park reported better emotional well-being than those with a larger park but a longer commute. Furthermore, the presence of water features, like ponds or fountains, seemed to enhance the calming effect, regardless of the park's overall size.