The Power of Green: How Cleveland Clinic Akron General Health & Wellness Center is Revolutionizing Health with Nature
Several studies have shown that nature has a positive impact on human health, from reducing stress levels to improving mental clarity. With this knowledge, healthcare providers around the world are looking to integrate the benefits of nature into their facilities. One such provider is the Cleveland Clinic Akron General Health & Wellness Center.
Integrating Nature into Healthcare Facilities
The Akron General Health & Wellness Center is home to the first Greenroof in Akron, Ohio. The Greenroof is a beautiful garden that covers the entire roof of the Center, providing a space for patients to relax and enjoy nature. It’s not just about the aesthetics, though. The Greenroof also helps to absorb rainwater, reduce the heat island effect, and improve air quality.
Besides the Greenroof, the Akron General Health & Wellness Center also has a Healing Garden, which is an outdoor space specifically designed to promote relaxation and healing. Patients can take a stroll around the garden, practice yoga, or meditate, thus connecting with nature in a therapeutic way.
The Benefits of Green Spaces in Healthcare Facilities
Research has indicated that exposure to nature can improve mood, reduce anxiety levels, and even speed up the healing process. According to Dr. Elizabeth Hoge, a psychiatrist at the Center for Anxiety and Traumatic Stress Disorders at Massachusetts General Hospital, “Nature has a way of engaging the mind in a way that is effortless and pleasing.”
Additionally, green spaces have been shown to increase levels of physical activity, which is essential for maintaining good health. Studies have found that access to green spaces is linked to a lower body mass index (BMI) and a decreased risk of chronic diseases.
The Role of Healthcare Providers in Promoting Green Spaces
The Cleveland Clinic Akron General Health & Wellness Center sets an example for other healthcare providers to follow. By prioritizing the integration of green spaces into their facilities, they are not only providing patients with a beautiful environment but also promoting their health and wellbeing.
Building green spaces in healthcare facilities is not just a luxury but a necessity. Patients deserve to receive care in an environment that promotes healing and wellness. Healthcare providers should take note of the benefits that nature has to offer and make a concerted effort to give their patients access to green spaces.
Conclusion
The Cleveland Clinic Akron General Health & Wellness Center is at the forefront of the movement to integrate nature into healthcare facilities. The Greenroof and Healing Garden are excellent examples of the transformative power of green spaces in promoting health and wellness. As healthcare providers continue to make strides in the integration of green spaces, we can expect to see improved patient outcomes and a shift towards a more holistic approach to healthcare.
