Research on the health-related benefits of urban parks generally focus on conventional parks, which are landscaped and highly managed for recreation purposes. Less research has focused on other types of urban greenspace. This study focused specifically on the health, social and therapeutic effects of access to the Natural Area Parks in Edmonton (Canada). Natural Area Parks receive only minimal management and are designed to protect natural habitats; yet, they are open to the public for recreation.
Thirty-three adults (age 29-87) participated in individual photovoice interviews focusing on the perceived health and well-being aspects of Natural Area Parks near their homes in Edmonton. Prior to their interview, each participant was asked to take 10-12 photographs reflecting their park-related experiences they felt influenced their health and well-being. Their photographs could represent either positive or negative influences and any or all dimensions of health (physical, mental, emotional, social, or spiritual). The photographs were used during the interviews as a basis for discussion. Interviews, which ranged from 23 to 74 minutes, were audio taped and transcribed verbatim. The analysis of the data focused on the therapeutic experience of the park visitors, not on the healing qualities of the park environment.
Emerging from the data were three key sets of understandings about the therapeutic value of Natural Area Parks: being in a different world, the importance of the holistic experience, and safety and transgressions. “Being in another world” for the participants included the experience of being separate from human influences and in the presence of wildlife and natural processes. Once they entered the natural space, the adults experienced “various sensory qualities of natural beauty, fresh air, quiet and the constantly changing aspects of nature.” These experiences were highly valued by the participants as important contributors to their overall health and well-being. The participants described the therapeutic experience in terms of the whole being greater than the sum of the individual parts. They also noted how their visits to the parks simultaneously promoted physical activity, reduced stress, induced relaxation, enhanced emotional and spiritual health, and strengthened connections and interconnections between people and nature. A number of the participants noted how being together in the natural area enhanced connections to their children and grandchildren or whomever they were with. For a few participants, being in the Natural Area Parks activated memories of time spent with others in the same place, especially memories of children when they were younger. Safety concerns centering on both human and wildlife dangers were mentioned during the interviews as factors detracting from enjoyment of the natural areas. The participants seemed, however, to accept these perceived dangers as acceptable trade-offs for the enjoyment they found in nature.
This research indicates that people appreciate Natural Area Parks for the opportunities such parks provide for relaxation, deep connection, and reflection. This research supports the inclusion of Natural Area Parks in the planning and development of other urban centers.
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