RESEARCH

How Do Horticultural Activities Affect Brain Activation and Emotion? Scientific Evidence Based on Functional Connectivity

This study used brain imaging to reveal that horticultural activities stimulate brain regions associated with positive emotions and cognitive functions. The findings suggest that gardening can enhance mental well-being by promoting mindfulness, creativity, and emotional regulation.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Mental Health Challenges/Trauma, General Population

Setting or Context: Community Gardens, Natural Areas/Parks/Forest

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Mental Health, Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Greater Sense of Purpose, Increased Sense of Belonging (Reduced Isolation), Improved Stress Management, Improved Cognitive Function, Sensory Stimulation

Allied Profession Intersections: Recreational Therapy, Behavioral Therapy

Type of Activity: Sensory Stimulation, Outdoor Gardening, Environmental Education, Forest/Natural Area Immersion

Evidence Type: Observational Research

Measurement and Evaluation: Metrics for Mental Health, Patient-Reported Outcomes, Standardized Assessment Tools

Research Source: Academic Journals

Access: Free

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Summary

This study used brain scans (fMRI) and mood questionnaires to see how different gardening activities affect emotions and brain activity. Researchers measured participants’ brain activity before and after they engaged in a 5-week gardening program that included preparing the soil, planting, fertilizing, weeding, and harvesting. The study found that gardening activities stimulated functional connections in brain regions related to emotions, suggesting that gardening can boost positive feelings and mindfulness.

The research indicates that different stages of gardening affect the brain in unique ways. For example, preparing the soil and planting activated brain areas linked to mindfulness and creativity, while fertilizing and weeding were associated with reduced depression. Harvesting, the final stage, also stimulated emotional processing and creative thinking. It also concludes that weeding, fertilizing, and harvesting result in the highest happiness rates. Overall, this paper provides scientific evidence regarding the efficacy of horticultural therapy in its various forms.

Link

Lai, P.-H., Li, C.-W., Hung, S.-H., Lee, A-Young., Chang, C.-Y., & Tang, H.-F. (2023). How do horticultural activities affect brain activation and emotion? Scientific evidence based on functional connectivity. Hortscience, 58(1), 67–78.

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