Green Pastures
December 8, 2008
A study out last month shows that the disparity between rich and poor populations can’t be calculated in monetary terms alone. Health disparities between the two, at least, have to do with green space, as well as greenbacks.
The study, conducted in London and published in The Lancet, indicates that even when income is taken into account—when the mortality rates of individuals of the same socioeconomic bracket and having the same access to health care are compared—exposure to green space demonstrably affects health. Even amongst the poorest populations, people with more access to green spaces are more likely to be healthy than those without. The study concludes: “Populations that are exposed to the greenest environments also have lowest levels of health inequality related to income deprivation. Physical environments that promote good health might be important to reduce socioeconomic health inequalities.”
I like the way Richard Mitchell, who led the study, puts it in this Reuters article: “This is the first time we have demonstrated that aspects of the physical environment can have an impact in such a good way,” he said. “It is a combination of exercise and restoration.”
It’s intriguing to me how we rediscover, ad nauseam, simple and life-giving conclusions—that the outdoors provide health through “exercise and restoration”—that God has essentially put before our eyes since the beginning. In this study, we hear echoes of Psalm 23, where we are promised restoration through God’s leading in peaceful, green spaces. In that Psalm, too, God promises to lead us in paths of righteousness: a promise of justice. There is an issue of justice in providing green spaces for all, so that all might flourish and not suffer from a lack of so simple a gift.
It’s good to be reminded of God’s work, even if by scientific studies and cultural commentaries. We’re telling and re-telling of his provision and character. But we’re also a little like the nation of Israel in the Old Testament. We too easily forget what the Lord has done, and have to learn, again and again, that the Lord’s promises, and what he has given us, are good. Lord, help us to remember.
“The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not
be in want.
He makes me lie down in green
pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
he restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of
righteousness
for his name’s sake.”
Psalm 23:1-3a.
Kendra Langdon Juskus is managing editor for Creation Care magazine. She lives with her husband in Illinois.
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