The Importance of Community Green or Blue Spaces for Community Health
Connection to our bodies is like a Mountain Connecting to the Earth. Strong and Stable!
When we bring awareness and attention to our physical body it provides a sense of control. When our physical bodies are guided with a sense of inner direction our emotional minds can also become grounded and at peace.
As you anchor your body to earth through nature experience, in a park, on a hike, or at the beach, you can become more attuned to feeling contact with the ground and the physical world around you. For example, If you are diabetic and you frequently feel numbness in your feet and hands you can consciously bring awareness to this sensation and find ways to increase circulation to minimize loss of feeling by connecting to the earth in a green or blue space.
Shifting an internal feeling of awareness such as physically feeling your feet firmly grounded into the sand, or earth, or floor is a powerful tool for anchoring. Intentionally shifting your awareness, to learn to build voluntary movement strengthening the somatic nervous system through nature experience is powerful.
To connect to a safe community green or blue space reach out to:
Local Government Websites:
Most cities have a dedicated section on their websites detailing parks, open spaces, and greenways, often with interactive maps showing locations and features.
Parks and Recreation Department:
Contact your local parks and recreation department directly to inquire about available green spaces, their amenities, and community programs.
Online Interactive Maps:
Many cities provide online maps that showcase green spaces, including parks, trails, and natural areas, allowing you to zoom in on specific locations.
Community Planning Documents:
Review your city's comprehensive plan or neighborhood plans, which often outline designated green and blue spaces and future development plans.
Community Engagement:
Talk to Neighbors: Ask local residents about their favorite green spaces or areas they frequent for outdoor activities.
Attend Community Meetings: Participate in neighborhood meetings where green space projects or initiatives might be discussed.
Environmental Organizations:
Check websites of local environmental organizations, as they may maintain information about natural areas, conservation efforts, and accessible green spaces.
What to consider when searching for community green spaces:
Accessibility:
Check how easily you can reach the green space from your home, considering walking distance, public transportation options, and safety concerns.
Features and Amenities:
Look for details about what the green space offers, such as playgrounds, walking trails, picnic areas, dog parks, or water features.
Quality and Maintenance:
Assess the condition of the green space, including cleanliness, vegetation health, and overall upkeep.
For Community Support and Guidance for Nature Experience of Healthy Green and Blue Space Contact us
