Green spaces may play a role in supporting immune health

Verdon Parc in Davao City

A walk in a park or a trip to the mountains is often seen as a way to unwind. Research suggests it may also be linked to how the body’s immune system responds. 

The 2016 World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe report cites Japanese studies showing that visiting forests is associated with beneficial immune activity, including the expression of anti-cancer proteins. 

While the link is associative, the findings point to a possible connection between spending time in green spaces and immune function. 

Calming Effect 

Researchers say the relationship may be shaped by several factors working together. One is stress reduction. Green spaces are known to have a calming effect, and lower stress levels are associated with better immune regulation. 

Another factor is exposure to the environment itself. Parks, forests, and landscaped areas contain a wider range of microorganisms than most built urban settings. Contact with soil, plants, and outdoor air may introduce microbes that help regulate immune responses and support how the body reacts to external threats. 

Early Exposure 

The report also highlights the role of early exposure. Studies found that children who encountered a greater diversity of bacteria and allergens during their first year were less likely to develop recurring wheezing and allergic sensitivities. This suggests that regular contact with outdoor environments may help shape a more balanced immune system over time.

Acacia Park in Acacia Estates, Taguig

Some researchers have proposed that improved immune functioning may be one of the key pathways linking green spaces to broader health outcomes. Beyond immunity, regular exposure to such environments has been associated with better physical and mental well-being. 

Daily Habits and Health 

Green spaces also influence everyday habits. Access to parks and open areas encourages people to move more, spend time outdoors, and take breaks from indoor routines. 

These behaviors support overall health and may reinforce the body’s resilience. 

Urban Design Response 

This understanding is reflected in how some communities are being planned. DMCI Homes, for instance, has integrated green spaces into its developments, allocating about 47 hectares to landscaped areas across its projects. This is nearly twice the size of the Quezon Memorial Circle national park in Quezon City.

Satori Residences in Pasig City

Within these communities, open lawns, gardens and shaded walkways are designed for regular use, giving residents accessible spaces to relax and stay active even in dense urban settings. 

Some projects have received recognition for these features. The Atherton in Parañaque was cited during National Bike Day 2025 for supporting active mobility, while Moncello Crest in Tuba, Benguet received a GantimPALA 2025 Merit Award from the Philippine Association of Landscape Architects as the only project recognized in the developer category. 

More Green Developments 

Future developments are expected to continue in the same direction. One Delta Terraces in Quezon City, The Valeron Tower in Pasig City and The Calinea Tower in Caloocan City will incorporate green pockets and vertical greenery suited for high-rise living. In Cebu City, Kalea Heights will dedicate 3.6 hectares to landscaped open spaces. 

Beyond physical health, green spaces also provide shared areas where residents can gather, children can play, and communities can interact. 

As cities continue to grow more compact, research suggests that even simple, everyday time spent in green spaces may be linked to how the body maintains its defenses. 

DMCI Homes is the country’s first Quadruple A real estate developer, with projects in Mega Manila, Baguio City, Tuba in Benguet, San Juan in Batangas, Boracay, Cebu City, and Davao City. Each of its properties is built with world-standard craftsmanship borne from D.M. Consunji Inc.’s over 70 years of expertise in the construction and development industry.  

 

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