FRESH AIR FOR MENTAL HEALTH: Mental health is more than the absence of depression, anxiety or other psychological issues. Good mental health influences how you think, feel and behave in daily life and affects your ability to cope with stress, overcome challenges, build relationships and recover from life’s setbacks and hardships (like COVID-19!).

Here are a few mental health benefits of parks and recreation, provided by NRPA:

— Individuals reported less mental distress and higher life satisfaction when they were living in greener areas.

— Parks and recreation contributes to lifelong learning and enrichment that contribute to increased knowledge, character development, confidence building and improved interpersonal relationships.

— Several studies have confirmed that separation from nature is detrimental to human development, health and well-being, and that regular contact with nature is required for good mental health.

— Parks and recreation provides a refuge from our busy lives and a community “commons” that connects people to nature and each other.

For those who are concerned about the ongoing epidemic during trips to enjoy fresh air, here are a few ways to help avoid exposure to COVID-19 and still enjoy the outdoors:

— Go outdoors to engage in outdoor activity, such as walking, hiking, or running IF you maintain physical distancing.

— Stay in your neighborhood or a local park or trail that is within 15 minutes of your home.

— Find alternate local locations or go during less popular hours to avoid crowded spaces.

— Lastly, please be considerate — do not litter, take your trash home with you or use marked trash receptacles, don’t use equipment or facilities that are marked as “closed,” and wear a mask to protect others as recommended by federal and state authorities.

— You can learn more about safe access to parks and recreation from our friends over at The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.