[The Impact of Green Spaces on Physical and Mental Health: From Theory to Clinical Practice].

Abstract

Green spaces are highly valued for their aesthetic appeal and recreational functions. However, with rapid urbanization and rising workplace pressures, mental health issues such as anxiety and mood disorders are becoming increasingly prevalent. Nurses, impacted by shift work and heavy workloads, often face challenges such as fatigue, psychological stress, and insomnia that can negatively affect work efficiency and patient care quality. Contact with nature has been shown to effectively relieve stress and enhance psychological resilience, making this an important strategy for improving overall health in nurses. In light of this, integrating green spaces into the design of healthcare facilities is essential. For example, creating outdoor gardens and natural landscape areas as well as incorporating natural light with window views and greenery not only provides nurses with spaces for stress relief but also helps enhance psychological resilience, boost happiness and job satisfaction, and, ultimately, improve patient care quality while supporting the sustainable development of healthcare services. At the policy level, management should actively implement health-promotion measures such as scheduling regular outdoor breaks and designing activities that encourage interactivity with nature. These strategies not only support the physical and mental well-being of nursing staff but also contribute to a more human-centered and sustainable healthcare environment, laying a solid foundation for the long-term sustainable development of the medical system.