Poor health due to stress, obesity, and chronic diseases has reached epidemic levels in communities across the country. The consequences are higher medical costs and lower quality of life for many Americans. Active living, eating right, reduced stress levels, and social connections are key strategies to improve health and happiness. A large body of research shows that everyday experiences of nearby nature in a community help people be healthier in both mind and body. Yet many public health and medical officials may not know about the evidence linking trees, parks, and open space to improved human well-being.

Click below to read the Spreading the Canopy: Promoting Nature as Key to Health Communities guide in one of two formats:

E-magazine

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