Nature-Inspired Environments
This design concept incorporates natural elements into indoor spaces to improve well-being.
What is biophilic design
This Japanese practice involves immersing yourself in the forest using your senses.
What is forest bathing?
This technique involves paying attention to your breathing, thoughts, and surroundings to stay present.
What is mindfulness
This therapy uses nature-based activities to improve mental health.
What is ecotherapy
Spending time in green spaces has been shown to reduce this feeling
What is anxiety (or stress)
This key element of biophilic design includes maximizing sunlight inside buildings.
What is natural light
This core practice in forest bathing involves slowing down and intentionally engaging all five senses in nature.
What is Mindful Sensory Immersion
This stress response prepares the body to react quickly to perceived danger or pressure.
What is the fight-or-flight response?
This hobby involves growing plants and is linked to reduced stress levels.
What is gardening
This measurable benefit refers to improvements in mood, reduced stress, and increased positive emotions after spending time in nature.
What is improved emotional well-being
This type of technology simulates nature experiences when real nature isn’t accessible.
What is virtual nature
This Japanese term refers to immersive nature experiences for relaxation
What is Shinrin-yoku
This internal voice often criticizes or doubts your abilities and decisions.
What is the inner critic/negative self-talk
This outdoor activity combines physical movement with nature and often includes trails.
What is hiking
Even brief exposure (like this many minutes) to nature can improve mood.
What is about 10–20 minutes
This type of sensory input (like birdsong or water sounds) is often used in virtual nature to promote relaxation.
What are nature sounds.
This program involves healthcare providers prescribing time in nature
What is Nature Rx (or Park Prescription)
This practice involves bringing attention back to the present moment by focusing on physical sensations like breath or touch.
What is grounding
This form of ecotherapy involves guided outdoor experiences led by a therapist or trained facilitator in natural settings.
What is nature-based group therapy (or outdoor psychotherapy)
This natural setting (oceans, lakes, rivers) is especially calming for many people
What is a blue space
This feature of virtual nature experiences allows users to interact with simulated environments in real time using headsets or digital platforms.
What is immersive virtual reality (VR)?
Research on forest bathing shows measurable improvements in this body system responsible for fighting infections and illness.
What is the immune system?
This practice involves noticing the inner critic and responding with supportive, realistic self-talk instead of criticism.
What is self-compassion
This type of ecotherapy involves structured interactions with animals to improve emotional regulation and reduce stress.
What is animal-assisted therapy
Studies show people living near this type of area report better mental health
What are green spaces (parks, forests, etc.)