Healthy Parks Healthy People
Healthy Parks Healthy People is a global movement which is helping communities around the world realise the health and wellbeing benefits of spending time in parks and nature. Our aim is to unlock the power of nature and parks for their preventative and restorative health and wellbeing benefits, while conserving biodiversity.
Growing scientific evidence and generations of traditional knowledge show that spending time in nature is good for our mind, body and soul. Community groups, schools, governments, health authorities and recreational organisations worldwide are tapping into the healing power of nature. Did you know that viewing natural scenes lowers blood pressure, reduces stress and boosts wellbeing, put simply, nature is good for you! Why not go for a walk in a beautiful park today?
Our stunning parks, coastlines, forests and mountains play an important role in fostering happy, healthy and active communities. Conserving parks for present and future generations provides inspirational and therapeutic settings that foster lifelong connections with nature and each other. Parks that are valued and maintained are also fundamental to economic growth and vibrant and healthy communities.
Maybe you need to escape the city, have a digital detox or chill out in a relaxing forest? We've got great experiences for everyone, from guided Park walks where you can make new friends, to Discovery walks where you can learn something new.
As the scientific evidence linking nature with positive health outcomes grows, so does the global trend for health professionals prescribing nature. In the past decade park prescriptions and social prescriptions have become recognised as a viable, low-risk way to encourage people to be more physically active, to socialise in their community and to boost their wellbeing. More information for health professionals can be found here.
Healthy Parks Healthy People Framework
Healthy Parks Healthy People describes the fundamental connection between the health of our environment and the health and wellbeing benefits of spending time in nature. Parks Victoria has developed a new Healthy Parks Healthy People Framework to guide how we maximise the benefits of parks for community health and wellbeing.
The framework is driven by Victorian Government policy and outlines the critical role that Victoria's parks can play in encouraging healthier, more liveable, and more connected communities.
The framework describes key priorities that will benefit Victorians across all life stages:
- Healthy places and settings for all
- Mutually beneficial program partnerships
- Quality information and evidence
- Leadership and advocacy
- Workplaces that promote wellbeing