Laserfiche WebLink
In the modern day, work and study involve primarily mental <br />and cognitive processes, and the use of computers has further <br />focused human productivity indoors. The biophilia hypothesis <br />describes an innate attraction that humans have for nature due <br />to a long history of being directly dependent on living things <br />for basic needs. This deep connection persists, and may explain <br />why the experience of nearby nature may help people perform <br />better in the office or at school (source cite in files). <br />The Attention Restoration Theory, or ART, suggests that certain <br />environments can help individuals recover from mental fatigue. <br />Restorative environments provide time away from tasks that <br />require voluntary or directed attention, which allows the <br />mind to recharge. Natural settings are particularly effective as <br />restorative settings. These environments allow the mind to pay <br />attention with little effort so it can relax and recover. Even brief <br />glimpses or short amounts of time spent in a natural setting can <br />improve brain performance and reduce stress. Visiting parks <br />or engaging in recreation activities can act as a way to be in <br />nature, socialize with others, and gain the benefits from being <br />in a restorative environment. <br />PROMOTING COMMUNITY HEALTH <br />"Parks and recreation departments build communities by <br />providing a place for people to gather, socialize and be around <br />others. Today, we realize that parks are more than recreation <br />and visual assets to communities; they are valuable contrib- <br />utors to larger community policy objectives, such as public <br />health, youth development, job opportunities, social and <br />cultural exchange, and community building. <br />Parks play a special role for gathering and socialization. They <br />have something to offer everyone from young children and <br />teens, to families, adults and the elderly. They are more than <br />places to recreate and relate to nature; parks also offer a multi- <br />tude of opportunities to engage in arts and music. <br />A park can be a community focal point, a symbol of its vitality <br />and character, adding to its overall health, well-being and <br />quality of life. "Parks and trails provide an outlet for refreshing <br />my spirit and keeping me fit and active"— Parks & Trails Legacy <br />Plan Public Workshop Participant. Community members near <br />parks value them because they give members a feeling that <br />their community is a special place to live and that it is a natural <br />setting in which the community can take pride" (Minnesota <br />Legacy). <br />CITY OF RAMSEY PARK SYSTEM PLAN 133 <br />