Space Prescription: Initiative to Improve Health and Well-being in Tokyo.

Abstract

This review introduces "space prescribing," an innovative healthcare approach that incorporates the physical environment's role in promoting health beyond traditional clinical settings. Recognizing that individuals spend a significant amount of time outside clinical environments, this approach explores the therapeutic potential of natural and built environments in improving well-being and managing diseases, particularly cardiovascular and mental health conditions.Traditional healthcare models focus on treatments in hospital and clinic settings. However, evidence suggests that environmental factors profoundly influence health outcomes. Space prescribing recommends specific environments that encourage healthier lifestyles and enhance wellbeing. This concept includes social prescribing, in which healthcare professionals direct patients to community-based, non-medical activities such as art classes and sports, acknowledging that well-being transcends biological factors.This review also highlights "Cultural Ecosystem Services" (CES) in health through stress reduction, social connections, and physical activity. For cardiovascular health, elements such as green spaces and urban design are vital for managing conditions, such as hypertension and heart disease. Similarly, the configuration of indoor and outdoor spaces plays a crucial role in mental health. Therapeutic landscapes, including community gardens and culturally enriched urban areas, support mental health recovery, foster community engagement and reduce isolation.In conclusion, space prescribing advocates an integrated approach that considers the physical and social environments as fundamental components of health promotion. This strategy aims to mitigate health disparities and enhance the quality of life, while making health-enhancing activities accessible in urban and rural settings. Through this holistic approach, space prescribing has the potential to transform public health by strategically utilizing environmental designs to support health outcomes.