The Cortex in Context: Investigating the Influence of Activity and Space on Psychological Well-Being

Abstract

Physical and mental health trends in developed countries are waning concurrently with increases in sedentary leisure pursuits and time spent in built environments. Research demonstrates that outdoor physical activity can prevent physical and mental ailments, and that excessive passive leisure (i.e. gaming and social media) can induce negative public health effects. This study explores the mechanisms of active and passive leisure influence through real-time tracking of mental states while incurring a standard “dose” of social media and walking. Results indicate that social media induces anxiety and mental focus, while walking enhances relaxation and meditative state. Geographic information systems (GIS) reveal that natural elements along various urban walking routes are associated with higher inward attention, and that unimpeded greenways may be more mentally restorative than built environments. Implications are discussed within the context of leisure education, urban planning, and public health.