In these trying and testing times, a bit of nature can do wonders to your mental health, say, experts. Yes, connecting with mother Earth and being one with nature are the latest buzzwords for new-age living. But the pandemic has once again shown that humans need to stay in touch with their natural environs for a stable and healthy mind. Thankfully, our city has extensive, well-developed, and concept-based lung spaces where citizens can spend time while maintaining social distancing.

On World Earth Day, let’s check out a few spaces where one can head to break the cycle of negativity and get a good dose of organic vitamin D.

For starters, there is Konda Gorre Wilderness Park on Karimnagar Highway, which is 30 km away from Hyderabad. The park has been developed by Telangana State Forest Development Corporation Ltd. Apart from 10,000 trees, it has a 2.5 meters jogging/ walking tracks, campsites, and green cafes. It is also a bird watchers’ delight as one can spot rare birds. One can also enjoy curated walks and walk on leaves fallen on the forest floor. A dream come true, right?

Then there is the Japanese Garden right in the heart of the city. The garden has been designed based on eastern philosophy and has 20,000 trees. It is a zen sphere with landscaping and cobbled pathways that are bound to leave you ‘in peace.’

Another relaxing space is the GHMC Dog Park, where one can go to see their furry friends and also catch up with fellow dog moms and dog dads. The place has three lawns, a loo cafe, a splash pool, and a 1.2-acre park for the pets to run around. The park also has a 7000 sq ft children’s play area.

A concept-based park, the Panchatatva Park is based on the principles of acupuncture and is an ode to the five elements – Earth, water, fire, sky, and air. The park also houses an ‘8-shaped’ pathway called Infinity Walk. Walking here can help you put your thoughts together and improve concentration.

Pala Pitta cycling park is another healthy option for nature lovers. Named after the state bird of Telangana, the 35-acre park at Kothaguda is where you can have some physical exertion by cycling on paths laced with silvery-barked eucalyptus trees. The park is open from 6 am to 10 am in the mornings and between 3 pm and 6 pm in the evenings, in keeping with the night curfew timings.

For an overview, there are 19 major parks, 17 theme parks, 105 stretches on the central median where greenery has been developed, and 919 colony parks in the city.