Published recently in Ecological Applications, it revealed that more frequent use of green spaces, such as parks and forests, and the presence of a green window view from within the home were associated with greater levels of life satisfaction, self-esteem and subjective happiness among adults living in a densely populated urban area.

Overall, the findings suggest that nearby nature may serve as a buffer in reducing the impact of a very stressful event, such as the pandemic, on humans, said Masashi Soga, the study's lead author and an associate professor at UTokyo's Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences.

"Protecting natural environments in urban areas is important not only for the conservation of biodiversity, but also for the protection of human health," added Soga.

A "nature-based" solution

During the first few months of the pandemic, numerous governments worldwide implemented strict lockdown measures and enforced public health policies like social distancing in an effort to stem the spread of COVID-19.