Everyday wild: Urban natural areas, health, and well-being

Cities are increasingly home to the world's population. Creating healthy and vibrant cities is one way to positively contribute to the health of populations. Parks and green spaces in cities contribute many health benefits. This case study explored the perceived health and well-being effects of access to Natural Area Parks in Edmonton, Canada through photovoice interviews with 33 participants. The research found the wild aspects of the parks of particular importance. Critically, the therapeutic value of the park emerged from the totality of the experience rather than from its individual components. Access to wilderness increased opportunities for relaxation, deep connection, and reflection. •Proximity to natural areas facilitated frequent and spontaneous visits.•Repeat visits fostered intimacy with the space over time.•Participants felt ‘away from the city’ while in the middle of the city.•Participants reported physical, spiritual and psychological therapeutic impacts.•Natural areas facilitated connections to nature, self, companions, and others.