TIMES SINGAPORE, JAKARTA – ‎Healing doesn’t always mean going far or spending a lot of money. Sometimes, sitting in a park is enough to bring the body and mind back into balance.

According to research from the University of Michigan, spending time outdoors can improve focus and reduce stress levels by up to 10% in just 20–30 minutes.

It’s no wonder more people choose to stop by a park after work — to take a leisurely walk, listen to music, read a book, or simply enjoy the calm of the afternoon. In those moments, the park feels like a small pause that brings relief after a long day.

1. Escaping Work Pressure

For many, the park is an antidote to the stress of daily life. The whisper of leaves and the gentle sway of trees provide comfort that busy offices or crowded streets cannot. Sitting on a bench or strolling among the greenery allows the mind to rest, creating space for relaxation and recovery.

2. Seeking Inspiration

Writers, artists, and thinkers often find the park a sanctuary for creativity. The sight of green leaves, the songs of birds, and the rhythm of nature awaken fresh ideas. A simple walk along the park’s pathways can spark new perspectives and clarity that cannot be found indoors.

3. Enjoying the Fresh Air

Some visitors come with no agenda other than to breathe deeply and enjoy the open space. Whether sitting quietly on the grass or watching the clouds drift across the sky, the park offers a rare chance to slow down. The freshness of the air and the presence of nature help people reconnect with themselves.

4. Morning Visitors

In the early hours, the park greets its first guests with cool air and calm silence. Joggers, readers, and elderly couples fill the space with quiet energy. For many, this time is perfect for starting the day with peace, health, and a renewed sense of hope.

"The place is cool because there are many trees and it can reduce the fatigue of the hustle and bustle of life," said Najla, a local community of Malang who also often visits the park.

5. Afternoon Serenity

As the sunlight softens, the park transforms into a lively yet peaceful space. Families gather, children play, and laughter mixes with the rustle of trees. Some visitors choose solitude, letting go of the day’s worries in the park’s tranquil corners.

6. A Shared Purpose

Though people come for different reasons, all find the same reward: peace. A single bench may host a tired worker, a dreaming student, or a curious traveler. The park unites these stories, proving that nature has the power to heal, inspire, and bring people together.
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‎In the end, healing in the park is a simple way of taking care of oneself. Under the shade of trees, we can learn to pause for a moment, take a deep breath, and realize that the world isn’t as heavy as it seems.

A park may appear ordinary, but for many people, it’s where they rediscover peace after a tiring week. Because sometimes, to heal, all we need is to sit on a park bench and let time move a little slower.
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‎Pewarta: Tasya Luthfiany Widyadhana