Abstract
In this experiment, we operated within the novel research area of Informal Green Spaces (often called green wastelands), exploring emotional well-being with the employment of portable electroencephalography (EEG) devices. The apparatus (commercial EEG Muse headband) provided an opportunity to analyze states of calmness and alertness in n = 20 participants as they visited selected Informal Green Spaces in Warsaw, Poland. The article aims to test the hypothesis that passive recreation in Informal Green Spaces (IGSs) has a positive impact on emotional well-being and that there is a connection between the intensity of states of calmness and alertness and 1. the type of green space (IGS/GS), 2. the type of scenery and 3. the type of IGS. The preliminary experiment showed that there might be no substantial distinction in the users’ levels of emotional states when considering existing typologies. On the other hand, data-driven analysis suggests that there might be a connection between the state of alertness and some characteristics of specific areas. After carrying out the multivariate analyses of variance in the repeated measurement scheme and finding significant differences between oscillations in different areas, we conclude that there might be three possible sources of lower alertness and increased calmness in some areas. These are 1. the presence of “desirable” human intervention such as paths and urban furniture, 2. a lack of “undesirable” users and signs of their presence and 3. the presence of other “desirable” users.
Highlights
In the initial phase of data analysis, we focused on three tests based on literaturederived typologies
Based on the scenery typology for Warsaw Informal Green Spaces (IGSs) developed by Gawryszewska et al [46]
The second test was a straightforward analysis of all IGS areas versus one green space (GS) (Pole Mokotowskie Park) area
Summary
The Importance of Urban Greenery for Well-Being and Mental Health. Access to urban greenery is seen as important for both mental and physical health. Public parks can provide much needed contact with the natural environment [1] and can help users to regenerate, fight stress and deal with the enormous number of stimuli in the urban environment [2]. Urban green spaces are an important factor in lifestyle choices, keeping people physically active and being beneficial for mental health, selfesteem and mood [1,2]. Introduction to research goals and equipment—individual instructions for all 20 participants. Presentation of research areas including walking directions and instructions on the use of provided Google Maps links. Test site visit with researchers and 5 out of 20 participants. Individual field research following instructions provided (Table A2 in Appendix B). Final meeting: returning the equipment and a short interview on general impressions of the study and issues that emerged
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