We've known it sub consciously but now we're being told it. In this age of science and technology we seemingly don't believe anything unless it can be proven.

So now we have proof.

Recent studies employing land-use data and satellite technology have reported that access to green space within a kilometre of one's residence is associated with improved mental health. Indeed, large population studies show that those with the least green space within one kilometre of home have a 25 per cent greater risk of depression and a 30 per cent higher risk of an anxiety disorder. 

Multiple studies from Japan show spending time in forests can lower stress, improve mental outlook, and lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Separate studies have shown similar cognitive-enhancing effects of short periods spent in natural settings. 

Spending just 20 minutes in vegetation-rich nature has been shown to improve vitality. Given that vitality is defined in psychological lexicon as emotional strength in the face of internal and external oppositions, and living life with enthusiasm and zest, the implications for personal and planetary health are enormous. 

I just came across a new word - hippotherapy.

Some children with sensory integration problems, sensory processing disorders or just growth spurts in typical neurological development experience problems with vestibular processes. 

They may benefit from sessions swinging safely at the park; being tightly wrapped, held and rocked; or having a session with a Sensory Integration therapist or therapeutic horseback rides (hippotherapy). [I love that term]

The child may be sitting comfortably and suddenly lose their sense of where their body is in space and fall over. A child with a sensory integration disorder may not feel dizzy before losing their balance. Motor planning problems also complicate these conditions as well as typical developmental stages.


The horse human bond is renowned for its healing quality. A horse's non-judgmental acceptance allows novice riders, including veterans and disabled adults and children, to learn and to grow.  

When designing natural play spaces I will be thinking about how we could incorporate horse riding nearby

I'm writing the next stage of a book proposal on sensory play. In my research for the book I am meeting wonderful people from every continent (bar Antarctica). Play equipment designers, play space specialists, natural play advocates, landscape architects, planners, parents and carers of inspirational young people all have an opinion, have had an experience they wish to share. 

There are wonderful play spaces being built around the world, inclusive in the true sense of the word, where everyone is welcome, young or old, non disabled or disabled.

Check out http://inspiringplay.com/i-want-one-too/ . There is great information on how to go about developing an inspiring play space in your neighbourhood. It's worth a look. Please let me know what you think. All comments are useful at this stage!