According to recent research from Bond University in Australia, living in densely populated urban areas can cause significant stress levels for individuals. By tracking heart rates and brain frequencies, researchers were able to confirm that highly populated areas cause peoples’ hearts to beat faster, while quieter areas can promote creativity. The study used portable heart monitors and EEGs to track responses of people living in different areas of Gold Coast, Australia. The researchers found that individuals in lower-density areas were more comfortable, had reduced heart rates, and increased mood levels. The study reveals that people who live in quieter areas have more contemplative and creative states of mind. Oliver Baumann, Assistant Professor of Psychology, explained that individuals living in enclosed city streets, such as those found in big cities, can perceive them to be more dangerous, which can increase their vigilance and fear response. He hopes that this research will encourage urban planners to adopt a human-centred design approach to create more comfortable and engaging urban areas for individuals.