RESEARCH

Therapeutic Garden With Contemplative Features Induces Desirable Changes in Mood and Brain Activity in Depressed Adults

This study examined the effects of urban spaces on mood and brain activity in 92 adults, 24 of which were clinically depressed. Participants’ mood was assessed using the Profile of Mood States (POMS) questionnaire before and after exposure, revealing that the therapeutic garden significantly improved mood in both groups compared to a busy downtown area.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Mental Health Challenges/Trauma

Setting or Context: Low Care/Independent Long-Term Homes, Urban vs. Rural Settings, Public/Botanical Gardens, Homes/Private Residences

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Mental Health, Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Greater Sense of Purpose, Improved Stress Management, Improved Cognitive Function

Allied Profession Intersections: Landscape Design, Counselling

Type of Activity: Sensory Stimulation, Forest/Natural Area Immersion

Evidence Type: Randomized Controlled Trials, Quantitative Research

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

Access: Free

Print Form

Summary

This study investigated the effects of passive exposure to urban spaces on mood and brain activity in depressed and healthy adults. Researchers recruited 92 adults (24 clinically depressed) who passively experienced three urban spaces: a therapeutic garden, a residential green space, and a busy downtown area. Portable EEG and fNIRS systems recorded brain activity, and the Profile of Mood States (POMS) questionnaire assessed mood before and after exposure.

Results showed that mood significantly improved at the therpauetic gardb in both groups. The lowest Total Mood Disturbance was reported at the therapeutic gardens and the highest in the bust downtown area. fNIRS data indicated marginally significant lower oxyhemoglobin in the frontal region at therapeutic gardens compared to downtown. The study suggests that exposure to therapeutic gardens with contemplative features can benefit both healthy and depressed individuals, with potentially different pathways of mood improvement.

Link

Olszewska-Guizzo, A., Fogel, A., Escoffier, N., Sia, A., Nakazawa, K., Kumagai, A., Dan, I., & Ho, R. (2022). Therapeutic Garden with contemplative features induces desirable changes in mood and brain activity in depressed adults. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 13.

Other Recommended Research

“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.

‘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.