Do you experience a sense of calm when you’re out camping, taking a brisk walk through the park, or even looking at a pastoral painting? It’s not a coincidence. It’s your love of life, also known as biophilia.
Biophilic design theorizes humans have “an innate biological affinity for the natural environment.” Multiple observational studies have shown positive correlations between associating with nature and your mood and overall health. Some long-term effects include decreased levels of anxiety and depression, increased cognitive function, and reduced risk of chronic diseases.
With biophilic design, you can incorporate your organic connection with nature in your home. In this post, we’ll briefly explore some key features and principles of biophilic home design, then dive into seven of its many health benefits.
Biophilic home design is an architectural and interior design approach that evokes or replicates the presence of nature. Design and construction companies achieve this in numerous ways, including:
Even just incorporating some of these biophilic home design features can improve your overall health. Here’s how:
More than half of the world’s population lives in urban areas, and studies show that city living and an urban upbringing can impact your neural social stress processing. This is associated with higher rates of stress, anxiety, and depression compared to people growing up in rural areas.
Having contact with natural outdoor settings and elements introduces a sense of calm in your busy everyday life, leading to reduced stress levels. Add natural lighting, materials, patterns, scents, and sounds wherever you can, whenever you can.
Hospital studies have shown links between biophilia and improved patient outcomes, including “faster recovery rates, decreased dependency on medication, and improved emotional wellness.” One study found that biophilia can reduce hospital stays by one day, which could save Americans $93 million each year.
Indoor plants also improve your indoor air quality through a process called phytoremediation. Here’s how it works:
After a few minutes at rest, you’ll be ready to reapproach the task at hand.
Psychologists found that adding plants to your home office or creative space can lead to a:
Many reasons for these benefits have already been defined above, including reduced stress and anxiety and improved cognition and performance.
makes breathing easier, while the scenery, scents, and smells promote a sense of relaxation by putting your mind at ease. Because biophilic elements reduce stress and anxiety, you’ll be less likely to focus on tomorrow’s tasks and other things going on in your world. Also, natural light during the day helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle, connecting you to your internal circadian rhythms.
Biophilic home design is inviting by nature because it invites nature into your home. It inspires and connects you to the world, making you feel like a better version of yourself. When you feel good, you’re more likely to engage with your surrounding environment, whether you’re at home, work, or a social function.
You probably wouldn’t think that something as simple as increasing your home’s natural lighting, growing plants indoors, or surrounding yourself with earthy colors can profoundly impact your health and wellness. However, biophilic design can help nurture your well-being and foster a deeper connection with the natural world.
At Pathway, we’re here to help. You’re creating a happier, healthier home by letting your house become a place where you can rejuvenate your body, stimulate your mind, and inspire your spirit.