COVID-19: Physical distancing and the science of happiness and well-being

By Phyo Ei Khine

Due to strong precautionary measures and emergency response plan, Myanmar Government has been effectively controlled and limited the risk of the spreading of corona virus in Myanmar. Avoiding crowded places and living in low density areas are the best prevention for the virus. There are some benefits of living in low density area.

Air Pollution

People who live in urban area suffer worse air pollution than suburbs. Air pollution is associated with respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Yangon air quality is getting worse recently because of double burden of indoor and outdoor air pollution like using kerosene, wood or crop waste for household cooking, fossil fuels, exhaust from factories and industries and transportation. These days Yangon air quality has reached ‘red stage’ in some mornings in terms of air quality index (AQI) 173, which impact everyone’s health. But living in low density area, air quality index is lower as there are parks, green spaces and sustainability tips of community.

Health, Happiness & Density

Living in high density is associated with mental illness, respiratory diseases, heart attacks and human happiness. Because of air pollution, lack of green spaces for physical or social activities are impact of significant health problems and social matters. Low density living can get obvious benefits for children associated with child development, mental health and physical health, as there are green spaces they can do physical activities, sports and independent mobility. By participating activities in community leads to reduce of psychosis and depression. Living in low density, people build communities and clubs to share their experience, knowledge and doing somethings new together. Belonging in community is way of stress relieving and reduce depression.

Rapid spreading of diseases

Are low density areas safer from COVID-19?

Probably, Yes.

Urban density can be catalysts for faster spreading of epidemic disease. Large population groups can be infected rapidly as people are more densely clustered. The virus can be spread faster when one person breathes in droplets that are produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Any infected person could spread the virus even by touching a surface. Living in low density areas, it is less chance to be infected and more educated for health awareness like coughing and sneezing etiquette, and how to wash hands properly. In suburban areas, there are lots of spacious, open and green spaces with sunlight, it is less likely to survive the virus in the air. At least, the houses are located certain distance, as it is less possibility to spread disease to people.

Stay aware of the latest information on the COVID-19 outbreak, available on the WHO website and through your national and local public health authority.

About Pun Hlaing Estate

The 652 acre estate is located by the Hlaing and Pan Hlaing rivers, and is a beautifully landscaped oasis of luxury estate villas and serviced apartments, golf course, country club with outdoor pool and tennis courts, culinary experiences, hotel, an international school, a wellness day spa, a hospital outside of gates of the gated community. Pun Hlaing Estate is a breath of fresh air away from the city so you can fully relax and enjoy life in Myanmar. Pun Hlaing Estate is developed by awards winning real estate developer Yoma Land.

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