ABSTRACT
The rapid growth of cities and the increasing intensity of human activities in urbanized areas are continuing to modify the physical and social environments of cities worldwide. Open air recreation has long been recognized as a key need for the health and well-being of urban dwellers. Recreation takes many forms, in dissimilar sites, for different purposes, by varied urban dwellers, from children kicking a football in a quiet street in Bogotá to old age pensioners practicing tai-chi in a shady park in Hangzhou. Urban nature and associated natural settings close to home are likely to attract people to spend a larger part of their spare time outdoors and be physically more active. A wealth of evidence on the links between urban natural settings, people’s physical activities, and their physical and mental health is now available. The diversity within the urban nature mosaic provides places for solitude and respite, and localities for gathering and socializing.
