RESEARCH

Using Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) Technology to Analyze the Benefit of Horticultural Activities

The study found that doing gardening activities indoors makes people feel more relaxed and improves their attention. The results showed physical signs of relaxation and positive changes in brain function after participating in horticultural activities compared to computer work.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Students

Setting or Context: Schools/Educational Settings

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

Allied Profession Intersections: Education

Type of Activity: Outdoor Gardening, Plant Propagation, Growing Plants from Seed

Evidence Type: Case Studies, Randomized Controlled Trials, Quantitative Research

Measurement and Evaluation: Standardized Assessment Tools

Access: Paid

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Summary

This research studied how gardening activities affect people’s mental and physical health compared to working on a computer. The researchers found that participants felt calmer and more relaxed when doing simple gardening tasks, showing changes like lower blood pressure and increased brain activity linked to relaxation. They also measured brain activity with modern scanning equipment, focusing on changes before and after participating in the gardening program.

The study shows that spending time with plants and nature can improve focus and emotional well-being. The overall results suggest that indoor horticultural activities lead to a more stable and relaxed mental state, which is good for psychological health compared to computer work.

Link

Chang, C.Y., & Lee, A.Y. (2021). Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) technology to analysis the benefit of horticultural activities. ISHS Acta Horticulturae 1330: XV International People Plant Symposium and II International Symposium on Horticultural Therapies: The Role of Horticulture in Human Well-being and Social Development

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