RESEARCH

Physiological and Psychological Responses of Humans to the Index of Greenness of an Interior Space

The results showed that people liked the 50% greenness level the most (45.8%). While overall heart rate changes were not significantly different based on the amount of green, male participants showed a statistically significant increase in RMSSD, a measure of parasympathetic nervous system activity associated with relaxation, when viewing the 50% greenness level (P < 0.05).

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: General Population

Setting or Context: Workplace Environments

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Improved Stress Management, Improved Cognitive Function

Allied Profession Intersections: Landscape Design

Type of Activity: Sensory Stimulation

Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies, Randomized Controlled Trials, Quantitative Research

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

Access: Paid

Print Form

Summary

This study aimed to find out the best amount of greenery to have in an indoor space by looking at how it affects people’s bodies and minds, and what people like best. Researchers brought 103 adults (51 men and 52 women) into a lab at Konkuk University in South Korea. Each person looked at plants inside the space for 3 minutes with different levels of greenness: 5%, 20%, 50%, and 80%. While they were looking, the researchers measured their heart rate and brain activity. After seeing each level of greenness, the participants answered surveys about how much they liked it and how green they thought it looked. The study made sure other things in the room, like the type of plant and the lighting, stayed the same to focus only on the amount of green.

The study team then used computers to analyze the measurements of heart rate and brain activity, as well as the answers from the surveys. They compared the results for the different amounts of green and also looked to see if men and women responded differently. They specifically looked at how the heart rate changed, which can tell us about relaxation and stress, and at certain parts of the brain linked to thinking and seeing. People also described their feelings about the different amounts of green using word scales.

Link

Choi, J.Y., Park, S.A., Jung, S.J. et al. (2016). Physiological and psychological responses of humans to the index of greenness of an interior space. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 28, 37-43

Other Recommended Research

‘The nourishing soil of the soul’: The role of horticultural therapy in promoting well-being in community-dwelling people with dementia

Gardening can help people with dementia feel more active, connected, and less lonely by improving their physical and mental well-being. The article highlights the need for more accessible gardening programs in the community to support social engagement and a better quality of life.

“Connecting people and the earth”: the occupational experience of people with different capabilities participating in an inclusive horticultural social enterprise

This thesis examines how a gardening-based social enterprise helps people of all abilities by providing meaningful work, social connections, and a sense of belonging. While it highlights the benefits of inclusion and community participation, it also points out challenges like funding and governance that need to be addressed for long-term success.

‘Into the Wild’: A meta-synthesis of talking therapy in natural outdoor spaces

This Meta-synthesis highlights the benefits of holding therapy sessions in nature, which can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance emotional well-being. While outdoor therapy offers unique advantages, such as greater openness and connection with nature, it also requires careful consideration of client suitability and professional training.