Over the last year, the way that we live our lives has changed considerably. During the lockdown, many people found that despite the crisis of a global pandemic, they enjoyed the fact that they could spend time at home, and that the busy rush of everyday life had calmed down.
Many people are now taking the opportunity to make permanent changes to their life so that they can enjoy the benefits of a slower pace of life and for many people this means a move to the countryside.
Rural estate agents like Stonehouse Estate Agents TGRES have found that there is an increased demand for housing in rural areas from people who live in big cities, keen to embrace country life. As some people make working from home a long term arrangement, and ogle homes in the great British countryside, here are some things to consider if this is something that you are weighing up…
A healthier lifestyle is one of the biggest reasons that people give to live in the country. The air is cleaner and as well as this the effect on mental health can be beneficial too, as the beautiful natural surroundings and lower stress levels can be a huge help.
Less pollution does mean that there is less transport. If you rely on public transport to get around, the countryside may not be for you – it is advisable to have a car if you live rurally as there are a lot less options when it comes to public transport and a quick trip to the shops may not be that quick!
Health reasons people leave the city
Crime is often the first thing people think of when they consider the downsides of city life, but there are other risks that are easier to overlook, and they are part of what draws many people to the countryside.
Air pollution is one of the biggest. Pollution levels are much higher in cities, and large cities around the world still have a long way to go in cleaning up their air. Living with poor air quality over many years can contribute to a range of health problems.
Transport is another. City public transport is usually better, but the chance of being involved in a road traffic collision is higher, and cyclists on busy urban roads face far more danger than those on quieter country lanes. Mental health is a factor too. The fast pace of city life can contribute to anxiety and depression. In the countryside, fields and woodland are close at hand, offering easy places to relax and lower stress. These are all worth weighing up before deciding whether a move is right for you.