–
Words by Dina. Photographs by Kartika Putri.
Who can deny that we long for nature in and around us to thrive, to be, and to breathe into our surroundings? It’s a pleasure for us to present a panoramic view of how cities benefit from nature through the eyes of our friends, Putri, and her little family. Let’s see how she shares her refreshing perspective as she goes back to Bangkok, Thailand after a prolonged absence. Green spaces were as far as the eyes can see, spanning majestically from outside the windows, at the park, to the midst of where people were.
Every place she captured in pictures exudes a vibrant energy and feels so alive. She eagerly shares with us how she’s enamoured with the people and the city. The nature is remarkably lively.
It’s interesting that Putri, an interior designer, turned our heads outdoors to know that nature is beautifully synchronized with the way of life there in places she visited. She finds solace amidst the verdant landscapes. A loving mother and a cherished friend, Putri honors her free time in places that were full of plants. There are always areas within the urban environment that offer a sense of connection with nature. She is convinced, that beautiful green spaces should exist in cities for all to enjoy.
–
Many people like Putri, recognize the therapeutic effects of nature. A simple glimpse of people lounging on the grass evokes a sense of tranquility and calm. Many people think that they can get therapeutic benefits from nature by getting away from the city, but if we look at what our friends are doing, they can certainly get those benefits without having to escape. Putri demonstrates how these rejuvenating experiences can be found in urban sprawl. Since their little family lives in the city, she said that they have to make the most out of it despite not having accessibility and time. Plants, for her, help the city have more green areas, just like her experiences there in Bangkok.
“For me, a good natural infrastructure is critical especially in the city. Nature has a beautiful power that makes us feel connected and more attuned with our surroundings,” Putri said.
Putri with her husband and a daughter explore several parks amid the city. Chulalongkorn University Centenary Park and Rot Fai Park standing out as her favorite. It was so exciting to see her photo of the sunflower garden. A sun-kissed sunflower garden captures their attention, its golden blooms, a feast for the eyes. We are sure, there must have been some beautiful moments she had that day there.
Observing Putri and her family immersed in nature in Bangkok, we can see people’s contact with nature. How do Putri and her family feel when they are in the midst of nature? We wonder. For Putri, it’s a simple sentiment. She said, “we feel at ease.” For her, it’s so lovely to see green spaces accessible for all to enjoy. This natural infrastructure is a much-needed change of scenery. Green spaces are very important especially when you have young loved ones. She believes that kids need to spend their time in nature.
–
In harmony with our hopes, our friend Putri also has faith that nature has a beautiful power that makes us feel connected and more attuned to our surroundings. It’s definitely critical for our well-being. It goes without saying that a good natural infrastructure is critical in the city.
Putri is someone who enjoys spending time with nature and fresh air, urging us to prioritize its integration within our urban landscapes. We know how meaningful is nature for people who live in cities. It should be the government’s top priority in city planning, people need to feel connected with nature, and it is fundamental for our wellbeing. It wasn’t hard for her to convince us.
We wrapped up by asking Putri, what does living well mean to her then? In the tapestry of urban life, let us heed Putri’s wisdom, embracing nature as an essential component of our collective well-being and urban resilience. We quote, “Be with your loved ones, believe that you’ll always have enough, take care of your health, and spend your time on something you truly believe in.”
–
–
