Green relaxation
It takes little effort for us to pay attention to nature and to stay in it.
The relaxation we experience has a lot to do with repetitive patterns called fractals, the Fibonacci sequence and golden ratio. These shapes and proportions can be found everywhere in nature, for example in the branches of (multi-stemmed) trees and the arrangement of leaves, flowers and seed structures. Think of sunflowers and the way the seeds are arranged in a spiral.
Natural stimuli, such as flowers, birds, and butterflies attract our attention. Looking at these takes little effort and has a relaxing effect because we are biologically attuned to nature.
Make sure that public green spaces are well maintained. Neglect and litter evoke feelings of insecurity and unrest.
Greenery nearby
More greenery in the living environment goes hand in hand with a lower risk of stress-related diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and depression.
Consider also smaller green elements, such as street trees and a mini park.
Especially for children, the sick, the (vulnerable) elderly and people with dementia, neighbourhood greenery is important for relaxation. This also applies to people with a low socio-economic status who are unable or unwilling to seek out nature further away from home.
Familiar greenery in combination with animals encourages people with dementia to reminisce and speak (more).
Primary school children who grow up in a densely built-up environment benefit from a high tree density. A study shows that there are indications that these children are then less likely to develop autism.
Care and recovery
Research shows that a view of greenery from the patient rooms contributes to recovery, earlier discharge of hospital patients, and less use of strong painkillers.
Looking at greenery and being in it is a pleasant distraction and promotes positive feelings and an increase in energy. In both adults and children, feelings of pain are reduced.
In healthcare places where relaxation is important, such as in waiting and treatment areas, indoor greenery can contribute significantly to reducing stress.
Attractive roof gardens and green outdoor spaces can serve as therapy areas. They are pleasant to relax in for a while. An advantage is that people also move around the space. This applies to the employees as well as patients and their visitors. There are various green professionals who have specialised in this field and are active as care gardeners.
Conversations between patient and doctor often go better in the outdoor area. People are also more receptive to their care.
Experience shows that stress relief is the most important benefit of healing outdoor spaces for patients with a psychiatric disorder.
Total experience
The colour green represents safety, nature and restoration. Colours can be used to enhance the desired experience instead of using colour based on fashion trends.
Cool colours (blue, purple, and white) are good for a more relaxed atmosphere. Warm colours (yellow, orange and red) create a more stimulating or active atmosphere, and are easily visible from a distance. These are timeless principles and therefore sustainable to use.
Seeing the colour blue and also seeing or hearing water (a flowing stream or a gurgling fountain) enhances relaxation. This has to do with a primal sense of security: There is water nearby. In addition, annoying background noise can be masked. Rustling trees and singing birds also generate a calm feeling.
Looking at a (screen) image of greenery or virtual greenery can have a stress-relieving effect. In the long run, it works better to actually be in a green environment.
Greenery has a positive effect on our other senses, such as hearing, smelling and touching.
Sunbathing
Sunbathing areas in parks can be used flexibly for active sports or picnics, and also for yoga and to relax. For use, it is important that visitors experience a sense of seclusion and human scale. A combination with water works very well.
Dog-free (poop) free is a point of attention.
To protect visitors from the wind, the greenery is placed as much as possible on the side of the prevailing wind direction.
More relaxation
Children living in crisis shelters often have to deal with intense stress due to domestic violence, addiction, mental health problems, or a combination of these stressors. A green playground to escape and relax is very welcome.
Spas and wellness centres are intended for relaxation.. Greenery is highly suited for the outdoor space. Greenery and outdoor yoga or meditation are an excellent combination.
In an outdoor area where yoga classes are held, soothing scents and colours in the plants provide added benefits.
Waiting
In station areas and at public transport stops, greenery can contribute to a moment of slowing down amongst hectic travel. The travel time, which often consists of a lot of waiting, can be enriched with greenery experience.
Gardening
Gardening has been proven to be a relaxing activity – good for people with busy and stressful lives. Gardening also brings healthy exercise and being outdoors.
Older people and people with mental health problems gain more self-confidence and often feel relaxed when they are working in the green themselves, with or without the help of others.
When designing the living public space, also think about users who come there to relax.
In joint community gardens and green projects, participants experience the relaxing effect of gardening in addition to the social aspects.
We are not (yet) primed for the many unnatural stimuli in the built environment, such as seeing monotonous concrete blocks and hearing so much traffic noise. About 75 to 90% of all GP visits are said to be stress-related.
