A little bee sent an article from The Boston Globe my way. Apparently recent studies have found that the population density of a city is directly related to it’s innovative capacity (which would explain Providence’s music, art, and tech scenes), but the same hussle and bustle of city living that brings us these intellectual prizes also seems to put a strain on the prefrontal cortex. This leads to a loss in the ability to maintain directed attention, and is also responsible for weaknesses in self-control (indulging in bad food, etc.).
BUT ALAS, A CURE!
It seems that urban parks that contain a diverse collection of vegetation are extremely calming to the prefrontal cortex, and bring a sense of calm and balance to the frenzied city mind. This proves, once again, the great importance of urban parks in our lives. They are not only nice places to have a picnic, fly a kite, or meditate. They play a vital role in our cognitive abilities, and in our psychological well-being. This further illustrates how a proper balance between greater population density and more abundant green spaces is the recipe for a healthier and more innovative society.
Read the article at: Boston.com
