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Best Plants for Office No Windows: A Guide to Plants That Don't Need Sun — Biofilico Wellness Interiors

Find out which plants that don’t need sun to thrive.

 

Have you ever wanted to make a radical change and decorate your living or office space, especially an office with no windows, using biophilic design?

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Some of the most important principles biophilic design is based on introducing as much natural lighting as possible, but that is virtually impossible in cases when you can’t open windows due to various building regulations or simply because the room does have windows but they not in the right position for flowering plants due to low natural light levels?

If you are wondering about what plants for windowless office, in other words, plants that dont need sun directly on their leaves, read on to learn more.

What then?

Well, circadian lighting that imitates natural one is the way to go in case of no or low light conditions, but what about plants?

Well, that can be covered too, by opting for houseplants that don’t need sun, and if you want to find out what are the best plants that don’t need sun to thrive - keep up with us.

Plethora of indoor plants for low light conditions

It’s very well established that plants need some sunshine at least, but there are some low maintenance plants that need less than most, or none at all, in order to survive, as they can thrive in artificial lighting as well.

Here are some of the best plants that grow without sunlight and can add a much needed touch of greenery to your home or office.

Chinese evergreen plant

Among the office plants that need no sunlight, or next to none, is the Chinese Evergreen. To many people, this low-maintenance plant is a great kind to start with if you are new to houseplants in general.

The older Chinese Evergreens produce flowers that are similar to calla lilies, and look the best on the floor next to furniture, while the younger version is compact enough to fit on your desk, tabletop, or shelf.

Speaking about their sun preferences, this plant's needs depend on the color of its leaves. Therefore, if they have darker leaves, they thrive in low light, while the varieties with pink or orange leaves prefer medium light. Either way, they shouldn’t be placed in direct sunlight.

Chinese Evergreen made its way to NASA’s list of air-filtering houseplants, which should say enough about the benefits of owning one!

Snake plant & spider plant love the gloomy corners

Snake plants and spider plants are incredibly indulgent, and can thrive in those gloomy corners of your house or office, that barely any sun touches. They are not even that demanding when it comes to watering as they need to be watered only when the top layer of the soil is completely dry.

Snake plants have pointed leaves, motley coloured that can look equally beautiful, whether in a small pot or in a larger planter. They are adaptable to various light conditions, including low light, and are known for their air-purifying qualities, making them suitable for office spaces and busy households. They need to be watered only when the top layer of the soil is completely dry, and that usually takes about two to three weeks.

Spider plant is usually used as a hanging plant, and it grows like weed, so it needs to be trimmed regularly. As they are prone to rotting, you have to keep the saucer and a pot with drainage underneath, in order to avoid that.

Vibrant Bromeliad

Bromeliads are tropical plants, and can also be enlisted among the houseplants that don’t need sun, or not a lot of it at least.

Bromeliads are unique looking, and resemble some tropical plants with vigorous pops of colour, which makes them a perfect option for a houseplant that will look good wherever you put it - on the shelf, tabletop, or even on the floor, depending on the species.

Most Bromeliad species prefer indirect sunlight, which means that it’s not directly hitting the plant. If you do happen to position it under the direct sunlight, the extended exposure will damage its’ leaves, so it’s best to keep near a window for example, not in front of it. Another great thing about bromeliads is that they can thrive on fluorescent lighting if the natural is not available.

Maidenhair Fern - beautiful but complicated

Maidenhair Ferns are one of those beautiful plants that don't need sunlight, but are a bit complex when it comes to the watering part. Ferns must not be over or under watered, they have to stay humid at best. 

They thrive better if they are planted in a clay pot, and instead of being watered from the top, you have to put small stones in the saucer beneath the pot, and put water directly in the saucer. This is how you create a humidity dome around the plant, but another safe option is to keep it in the bathroom. 

Semi - dangerous Dumb Canes

These beautiful plants are a common ornament both in homes and office spaces, and are called dumb canes because of the parts of the plant that are poisonous, which is why 

it's advisable to keep them away from children and pets. 

Dumb Canes can thrive anywhere between low and high filtered lighting (the sunlight that shines through a curtain or a covered window), depending on the species. Most of theme can survive really well in the low light, but some of the probably won't grow anymore. 

The cascading Ivy

The Ivy varieties might some of the most popular plants that don't need sun out there. Some of them are green, while others can have white or green diversification. 

Ivys are quite tolerant of any form of neglect, so you can only water them when they've completely dried out, cause you don't want them to feel soggy. When it comes to their appearance, you can always trim them if you want to keep them looking sumptuous.

The English Ivy variety is the to turn any gloomy wall or corner into a piece of art, but it's also great for fences and other places you can decorate with vines, but keep in mind that vines take a longer period of time to grow. 

The English Ivy prefers bright indirect light, but can survive in the low lighting conditions as well. The thing is - the more light it gets, the brighter green it becomes, however, it shouldn't be exposed to it too much. 

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The extravagant Staghorn Ferns

Staghorn ferns are one of those unique, excessive plants that can be very picky when it comes to their living conditions, which also applies to lighting. 

The Staghorns prefer bright indirect or filtered lighting, but never direct sunlight. It should also be noted that the plant can not survive in the artificial light, and it can be a bit high-maintenance in terms of watering - like Maidenhair Fern, the soil has to be damp, but never wet. 

Pothos for beginners

If you are new to plant care, the plants that don’t need sun (or not a lot of it) are a great start, but how to choose when wanting to cultivate plants without sunlight, is whole other dimension.

We believe Pothos is a great beginners plant - it prefers bright, indirect light, and can even tolerate low light conditions. It is commonly known for its’ oval leaves and pinkish veins, thanks to which it looks great in hanging baskets. Pothos can also thrive under fluorescent light, making it a versatile choice for various indoor settings.

However, even though Pothos is considered to be quite the low maintenance, if it doesn’t get enough light during the day - it will close its’ leaves over night and won’t reopen them anymore, or the leaves will start to fade, so make sure not to put it in the shade.

The vibrant Bird of Paradise

The tropical looking Bird of Paradise is not only the future replacement for all of your other plants, it’s is also enlisted among the lower maintenance plants that can live without sunlight. Another great option for windowless offices is the cast iron plant, known for its hardiness and minimal care requirements.

This vibrantly coloured plant has a unique look, but doesn’t require a ton of care at the same time, which makes it a perfect household plant. You should always make sure the soil is damp though, so your Bird of Paradise would thrive.

The bottom line now that you know what kind of plants that don’t need sun, or not much of it, are, than you are ready to start decorating your home, or your office, with the right green touches of some air purifying, mid-maintenance plants that make any space instantly brighter.



 
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Biophilic Design: A Small Guide to Succulent Wall Design and Decoration — Wellness Design Consultants

If you’ve also fallen in love with succulents due to their uniqueness and versatility, and want to make them part of your living space, let us show you how you can do that.

 
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Succulent plants have become an ever more popular way to decorate a space - whether it’s an indoor or an outdoor one. Apart from being pleasant to look at, this kind of decor can bring much-needed freshness and natural elements to a room, or to any kind of home decor in general, creating harmony within the built environment.

Succulent plants can be displayed in more than one way, and very unusual for that matter, but probably the most popular and eye-pleasing is the succulent wall garden - a kind of vertical garden that can be hanged to the wall.

While succulents can be planted in individual pots and hanged to the wall, they can also be planted in a wall planter that can be large as the wall itself, or smaller, depending on what wall area you want to decorate proportionately to the room. Either way, succulents are very versatile and look especially stunning when planter vertically, due to their atypical looks.

If you’ve also fallen in love with these unique plants and want to make them part of your living space, let us show you how you can do that.

Vertical succulent wall planter and why it makes a stunning decoration using biophilic design principles

Do you know what succulents are?

Succulent plants are small thick-leaved plants that store water, while the word “succulent” is derived from the Latin word “sucus” and means juice or sap. All succulents have thick and fleshy leaves which allows them to store water during the long period of drought.

But, how they’ve gotten so popular as houseplants?

Well, mainly because they are very tough, and once they soak up all the water, they can use it stored for a very long time, and therefore, require minimal maintenance. After all, these plants are desert residents, not to mention they can be found living on the cliff edges, cracks or rock cavities.

Additionally, incorporating succulents into your home decor can provide various health benefits, such as improved air quality and reduced stress levels. This aligns with the principles of biophilic design, which emphasizes the positive impact of nature on human health, including reduced stress, improved cognitive function, and overall well-being.

However, you should always bare in mind that succulents do not like to stay in the soaking wet soil, because it can trigger rotting, which is why you should always keep it moist or dry.

Plants we recommend for your succulent wall design

Before we get into the specifics and show you step by step how to create your own vertical succulent wall, let us dive into the issue of picking out the right succulents for the occasion.

Succulent plants are very versatile, and therefore, allow you to be creative in creation of your own succulent wall, but you need to make note and pick out the plants that are smaller and rosette like, so they do not protrude out of your display.

Various shapes, sizes, and colours of succulent plants, with their unique natural shapes, make a great foundation for creating a more versatile look for your succulent wall garden. Incorporating these natural features not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also brings benefits such as improved well-being and reduced stress. Here are the most flexible ones:

  • Graptoveria Blue Pearl

  • Blue Giant succulent

  • Chocolate Soldier succulent

  • Moon Silver succulent

  • Golden Glow succulent

Arrangement of succulents? - Entirely up to you.

A lot of these succulents combine really well in a succulent wall garden, but either way, be mindful of the type of planter you’re using for this purpose, as well as interior decor in general.

Also, apart from visual impression, you can always combine the succulents that belong to the same genus, and create a homogeneous form, or you can do, and fuse succulents of completely different disposition. Clustered succulents can also be aligned according to their colour and fading nuances.

Ultimately, the choice is yours.

green-succulent-plants.jpg

Vertical succulent wall planter and why it makes a stunning decoration using biophilic design principles

Do you know what succulents are?

Succulent plants are small thick-leaved plants that store water, while the word “succulent” is derived from the Latin word “sucus” and means juice or sap. All succulents have thick and fleshy leaves which allows them to store water during the long period of drought.

But, how they’ve gotten so popular as houseplants?

Well, mainly because they are very tough, and once they soak up all the water, they can use it stored for a very long time, and therefore, require minimal maintenance. After all, these plants are desert residents, not to mention they can be found living on the cliff edges, cracks or rock cavities.

Additionally, incorporating succulents into your home decor can provide various health benefits, such as improved air quality and reduced stress levels. This aligns with the principles of biophilic design, which emphasizes the positive impact of nature on human health, including reduced stress, improved cognitive function, and overall well-being.

However, you should always bare in mind that succulents do not like to stay in the soaking wet soil, because it can trigger rotting, which is why you should always keep it moist or dry.

Plants we recommend for your succulent wall design

Before we get into the specifics and show you step by step how to create your own vertical succulent wall, let us dive into the issue of picking out the right succulents for the occasion.

Succulent plants are very versatile, and therefore, allow you to be creative in creation of your own succulent wall, but you need to make note and pick out the plants that are smaller and rosette like, so they do not protrude out of your display.

Various shapes, sizes, and colours of succulent plants, with their unique natural shapes, make a great foundation for creating a more versatile look for your succulent wall garden. Incorporating these natural features not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also brings benefits such as improved well-being and reduced stress. Here are the most flexible ones:

  • Graptoveria Blue Pearl

  • Blue Giant succulent

  • Chocolate Soldier succulent

  • Moon Silver succulent

  • Golden Glow succulent

Arrangement of succulents? - Entirely up to you.

A lot of these succulents combine really well in a succulent wall garden, but either way, be mindful of the type of planter you’re using for this purpose, as well as interior decor in general.

Also, apart from visual impression, you can always combine the succulents that belong to the same genus, and create a homogeneous form, or you can do, and fuse succulents of completely different disposition. Clustered succulents can also be aligned according to their colour and fading nuances.

Ultimately, the choice is yours.

Vertical succulent wall garden - succulent wall design step by step

Before we present you with the guide of creating your own succulent wall garden, let’s make note of the materials you are going to need first. By following these steps, you can create spaces that are not only visually appealing but also functional and restorative. Incorporating elements that mimic natural environments is crucial in biophilic design to enhance the health and wellbeing of occupants and to optimize sustainability.

Succulent wall garden decoration natural materials

  • Succulents (obviously) - Pick out your favorites with greenery and stems. The number you should approximately prepare is around 35-40 for the 11x14 frame.

  • Shadow box frame - This box should be deep enough so you can add soil and plant your succulents. As for size, carefully determine where exactly you want to hang your vertical succulent garden, a therefore decide how big of a box you need.

  • Plastic for landscaping - Used to protect your shadow box from the soil and to prevent any water draining from the frame.

  • Glue gun

  • Moss - Used for filling the shadow box and keeping the succulents fresh.

  • Wire mesh - You’ll need it to fix the soil in place.

  • Staple gun - For securing the wire mesh onto the shadow box.

  • Scissors

  • Natural materials - Consider using eco-friendly options like reclaimed wood for the shadow box frame.

  • Natural lighting - Essential for the health of the succulents, promoting a sustainable and healthy indoor environment.

Now, let’s cut to the chase and start making the succulent wall!

Step 1 - Layer the shadow box with landscaping plastic

Once you've chosen you're shadow box in the right size, first you'll have to layer it with landscaping plastic. Cut enough plastic so it extends outside of the box, place it in the box and then secure the edges with the glue gun. Once you've done that, use the scissor to cut the excess.

Step 2 - Add moss

Fill the box entirely with sphagnum moss, and evenly spread it. The moss has a superb ability to retain water, which will provide your succulents with just the right amount of moist they need. 

Step 3 - Use the wire mesh to create the frame

Cut the wire mesh first, and then layer onto the frame of the box. Check if t fits properly and then extend it towards the edges. In the end, secure it with the staple gun along the edges. 

Step 4 - prune the roots of your succulents before repotting

The succulents you've chosen need to be pruned before repotting, in order to ensure growth and prosper of your succulent garden wall. Use your hands to release them from the soil, and then carefully prune them. 

Step 6 - Hang your succulent wall garden in natural light and admire your handy work!

Once you’ve pruned the plants, and before pressing them into the moss, use your fingertips to make room first. Place them into proper position and then press them into the moss. By carefully placing each plant, you can create a natural environment that mimics their native habitats, emphasizing the importance of natural landscapes in biophilic design. You’ll do this with every plant, repeating it until you’ve achieved the look you want. Always stand back and check whether you’re content with the result, and arrange them differently if necessary.

Step 6 - Hang your succulent wall garden and admire your handy work!

Before you hang your newly made succulent wall garden on the wall, make sure all the plants are safely rooted, which should approximately take between four and twelve weeks.

When choosing the perfect spot to hang your garden, ensure it has moderate to bright natural light, and don’t worry if it gets warm - succulents are desert plants after all.

Last but not least - how to nurture your succulent wall garden for health benefits?

Succulent wall gardens require more or less the same amount of nurture, but you still have to know how to do it properly.

Apart from providing them with just the right amount of sunlight, mind your watering because you don’t want to soak up your brand new succulent wall, which is easy to do since you don’t have drainage holes either way. You can always check the wetness of soil with a wooden stick, and see if you’ve, by any chance, overdone it.

Water your succulent wall once a month, and you’ll do it by laying it flat first, and then thoroughly moistening the soil. Keep the “wall” down for an hour or so after that and make sure the frame is dry, before you hang it back again.

The moss will also require some nourishing, so you can mist it once a week freely.

Succulent wall garden not only is a dramatic display of stunning (and much needed) greenery, but also is a new design element that is getting extremely popular in all sorts of living and working environments - like indoor landscaping, not to mention recreational - like gym design. Introducing such elements can significantly improve mental health by reducing stress and enhancing overall well-being.

All in all, succulent wall garden represents a nice start to introducing natural interior design elements into your home, or you someone else’s, if you’re a little DIY project. Caring for your succulent wall garden can also foster a deeper human connection with nature, promoting relaxation and well-being.

 
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What is Biophilia?

What does it mean and why does it matter?

biofilico casa biophilia design
 

As the world becomes increasingly urbanized, lifestyle convenience and stimuli typically increase while access to nature and green spaces decrease.

Biophilia and biophilic design are in this sense a thoroughly modern response to that disconnect from nature although, as you’ll discover, it is one informed by our meta history, having evolved as a species in relative harmony with nature over hundreds of thousands of years.

What is Biophilia?

We define biophilia as the human love of or need for a close connection with nature and other forms of life. When applied to modern lifestyles, ‘biophilic living’ resembles less a primal, hunter-gatherer lifestyle and is rather about the respectful integration of nature into our home, offices, gyms, diet, beauty products, transport choices and more.

Why Does Biophilia Matter?

Wherever health, wellness, and community are at stake, biophilia has a genuine contribution to make, partly to improve the lives of the people involved but also as a way to protect the planet.

Biophilia & The Triple Bottom Line

Biophilia is a Triple Bottom Line concept in this sense, as it accounts not just for People and Planet but also for Profit, which explains why it has been adopted around the world by some of the most valuable companies in existence.

Amazon, Google, and Apple have all tapped into the power of biophilic design recently for their office interiors, so what lies behind the shift to such botanical work spaces?

Clean Living

Plants convert CO2 back to oxygen as we know but recent studies by institutes such as NASA show that plants also purify the indoor air for us.

Within interiors, this means filtering out harmful chemicals, such as formaldehyde, benzyne, ammonia—to name a few— from off-gassing furniture, paint, building materials, and pollutants that track in from the outside world.

NB: We recommend going big on such plants in each room, around 6-8 per regular user if possible and then supplement that with an air purifier from Dyson, that’s how we do things anyway.

Wellbeing

We are bombarded daily with endless stimulants in bustling urban areas—especially in the era of endless technology. Interiors and exteriors that utilize biophilic design create spaces where such stimuli can be set aside for a dose of Vitamin Nature that will recharge our internal batteries and, as a result, improve concentration, productivity and creativity.

biofilico recharge room green design

Our Biofilico green recharge rooms and office interiors are designed specifically for this purpose in fact. When we integrate movement and activity into the mix as well, we end up with a Biofit gym’s ‘special sauce’ - double the wellness benefits basically!

Biophilia & Tribal Community

Not only does biophilia hold the key to connecting with nature in unnatural settings, it also creates opportunities for greater sense of connection between groups of individuals and nature, for example through the creation of communal gardens, green spaces in schools, or shared workspaces like Second Home in Lisbon.

The fundamental insight here is again informed by ancestral health principles that clearly show humans to be tribal animals, originally operating in groups of 150-250 people.

In conclusion, biophilic living is an effective way to counteract against some of the negative effects of urban living and by embracing this concept, we can improve quality of life, health and well-being whilst improving consciousness of our connection to the planet around us.

Related reads from Biofit & Biofilico:

5 Best Examples of Biophilic Design

10 Ways to Add Biophilic Design to Your Home, Office, or Gym

Air Purifying Plants in Biophilic Interiors

 
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How to bring nature into your home via biophilic design

Part 1 of our Top 10 Ways to bring nature into your home, office or gym

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If you want to know what is the best way to bring nature into your home, office or gym, and make your interior to truly look and feel its best, incorporating biophilic design elements is a tried-and-true method to add not just soul but wellness benefits to an interior. 

By implementing a few of these key biophilic design strategies when designing your home, office, or gym you can create a space that prioritizes personal well-being—and looks aesthetically pleasing while doing so - while also respecting the planet. Here’s how:

Bring nature home by adding some plants!

We’ll start with an obvious one; plants are a quick way to incorporate direct biophilia into any interior. This can be as simple as a few potted plants or as expansive as a vertical garden wall. To reap the most benefits from this easy addition, aim for plants that will clean the air, as well as please the eye. 

Why stop there though when there are terrariums, aquascapes, domestic animals and countless other ways to bring nature into the built environment.

Use indirect biophilia

If you were wondering how to bring nature into your home, or any other space for that matter, when plants and other direct biophilic elements aren’t available, look to what is termed indirect biophilia. Photos, murals, and illustrations of nature, animals, and plants are a great way to ground your space in nature, plus these strategies have stress-reducing properties. 

Studies have shown that even indirect biophilia—using elements that are merely representational—still holds an arsenal of benefits similar to direct biophilia.

Use natural materials

biofilico casa home biophilic design tips

The materials  you choose for an interior space will not only influence the final ambiance but also impact the users’ health and wellness. Natural materials are reminiscent of nature itself, of course, which is why one of the ways to introduce nature into your home is by opting for materials that are natural and sustainable will help ensure that both a room’s users and the planet stay healthy. Good materials to consider include FSC wood, bamboo, linen, cork, and ceramic. Do away with plastic completely.

Light it up - make the most out of natural light’

Bringing nature into your home or office also refers to natural lighting, that can truly brighten up any atmosphere. Implementing a circadian lighting system that follows the body’s natural rhythm can help improve both productivity by day and sleep by night. 

Fill your space with natural light whenever possible but when the sun’s rays aren’t available, find a lighting system that uses blue-white tones in the middle of the day, and amber tones early and late. The Philips HUE system does a decent job of this.

Bring the outside in interior design by mimicking nature’s voice

Speaking about bringing the outside in, serious biophilic design appeals to all the senses, including sound.  Possibly one of the most soothing things about being immersed in nature is the soft sound of birds, running water and the rustling of trees. 

The great news is that you can easily recreate this sensation by playing nature sounds, which are widely available and come in an array of themes and compositions. 

These are just a few of the simple biophilic design strategies that you can start implementing today, and by using just a few of the elements mentioned above you can be on your way to a healthier and happier interior.

Harness Nature’s Aromas

Bringing nature into your home, gym or office can now be sensed by incorporating certain aromas into a space is a simple way to extend the user experience and influence not just the tone of the room visually but also how its users feel whilst in it. 

Forget synthetic fragrances though, we keep it clean with organic essential oils  such as pine, cedar or lavender, preferably diffused into the air for 30-60 mins straight. This is especially beneficial first thing in the morning and last thing at night, while taking a relaxing bath or while concentrating on a writing or work task.

Commit to the nature theme and purify the Indoor Air

Urban living comes with its benefits, sure, but one of the inarguable downfalls is the reduced air quality, especially in certain cities such as  Barcelona for example where the municipality struggles to keep pace. 

If you want to give an all-around nature effect to any room,  and at the same time keep your  lungs happy and healthy - start by deploying an air purifier—preferably one with a HEPA filter. Dyson Air Cool is our model of choice for our bedroom in Casa Biofilico for example. 

This helps restore air to its natural state by removing pollutants that off gas from furniture or, more likely, drift in from the streets outside. Incorporating a few plants can also assist with this goal although you’ll need to go big on quantities and choose the right species, and even then we still recommend using an air purifier. Take no prisoners on this front!

Go Organic on your Materials

If you want to support the natural world in the best possible way, then going full on eco-friendly and organic is the way. Using organic materials can lessen the presence of harmful chemicals that are regularly found in building materials and furniture— think benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene. Yes, this is a thing.

While plants and purifiers are a great method to filter the pollutants that get in, going organic is a preventative measure that will help ensure their presence is minimal from the get-go, which is also an indirect way to introduce nature into your living or working space. Rather like taking your shoes off before entering a home so as not to bring in the dirt from outside. Joined-up thinking is the way to win this battle.

A Natural Neutral Palette

The color scheme is arguably one of the biggest influencers of the mood that an interior elicits. While bright tones can add energy, neutrals will help any commercial or residential room feel grounded in nature - a simple way of bringing the outside in interior design.

Try opting for colors that you often see in the wilderness, like browns, beiges, and greens. Still looking for a pop of bright color? Try a dash of sunshine yellow and a bright sky blue.

Welcome ‘Wabi-Sabi

Nature is never about perfection, so why should your interior design be? Harness the intrigue and natural beauty that imperfection can bring and integrate pieces into your design that have variations in the finish or maybe even a couple of chips or cracks. 

Wabi-Sabi is a Japanese concept common among vintage and handmade products, so look for furniture, crockery sets, and pottery with such ‘imperfections’. 

These actionable, biophilic design strategies can help propel any home, office, or gym design in the right direction, and bring the natural outside world right into your home, office, or any other space you need refining. Whether you implement a few or all 10, both your interior and health will thank you! In case you need more advice, check out more biophilic design strategies (coming soon) or contact the experts at Biofilico today.

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Office Recharge Rooms & Biophilia

Biophilic office recharge rooms are nature-inspired haven’s of tranquillity that work just as well for power naps as flow state sessions. We design them too!

Biofilico’s biophilic recharge room concept

Workplace Recharge Rooms - why are they useful?

In an era filled with high stress jobs and always on tech fatigue, recharge rooms are a growing trend in workplace wellness programs. Whether presented as somewhere for stretching and yoga, a quiet room for focused bursts of concentration and productivity, as a chill-out meditation space or even a games area, recharge rooms are somewhere for workers to — you guessed it—recharge their batteries during the workday.  

What are the Benefits of a Wellness Room?

It may seem like an overly generous move by an employer to provide this kind of a facility for employee use during work hours but there is a lot more to it than just helping staff top up on their nightly sleep quota... Companies themselves can benefit from them just as much as the employees do. 

When used for brainstorming sessions for example, these rooms can boost creativity, mental clarity and overall productivity (more on the ‘how’ below). This makes them effective tools not just for forward-thinking HR departments looking to attract / retain top talent in a competitive marketplace (think tech start-ups for example) but also for Executives looking to optimize their team’s output and help individuals find their flow state in what is increasingly likely to be an open-plan office with limited privacy.

WeWork’s green wellness room

WeWork’s green wellness room

Biophilic Design & Office Green Rooms

Replicating the body’s circadian rhythm with smart lighting solutions means these rooms can be pre-programmed each season to replicate the effects of sunlight in the mornings, energizing blue-white light in the middle of the day and softer amber tones later on.

Air-purifying plants combined with dedicated air purifiers ensure improved indoor air quality (IAQ) to reduce air-borne particle counts and remove other pollutants, helping to reduce allergies and promote cognitive function at the same time.

Botanical wallpapers, artworks and nature murals can be used to bring the outside world in, replicating the effect of being outside in a natural landscape even if the office is located in a dense urban setting with limited gardens or parks nearby.

Organic aromatherapy oils such as pine and rosemary can add an extra sensory dimension to the experience whilst also affecting mood and concentration levels. Advanced functional nootropics can also be added to a diffuser now, representing another level in organic biohacking.

The Urgent Need for Recharge Rooms

While stress and mental health disorders seem to be more abundant than ever, these recharge rooms are a modern tool to help combat what is a decidedly 21st century problem. With a plethora of benefits for both employee and business, there is a recharge room to fit just about every budget, room size and corporate culture.

To discuss how we can help design one of these spaces for your office or home, simply email us at design @ biofilico . com

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The Health Benefits of Biophilia Plants in Interiors

How to select the right species and add to an interior design concept with plants for a healthy, biophilic interior.

 
air purifying plants biofilico interiors biophilic design

biofilico interior design atrium biophilia garden indoor

Whether used in commercial biophilic interiors, such as offices, hotels, and gyms or as part of residential biophilic design, plants add personality to any space and come with various health and wellness benefits to supercharge any interior with Vitamin Nature.

The biophilic design leverages the innate tendency of humans to seek connections with nature, connecting human beings with our evolutionary history by reintroducing living systems and plant life into soulless, polluted urban contexts in some unfortunate locations.

How Does the Biophilia Hypothesis Help Interior Designers Create Healthy Spaces?

The biophilia hypothesis, developed by biologist Edward O. Wilson in the 1980s, suggests that humans have an innate and instinctive connection to nature and other living organisms.

It posits that our well-being, physical, and mental health are intricately linked to our interaction with the natural world and living systems. This hypothesis has significant implications for interior designers striving to create healthy indoor spaces. Urban designers can also benefit from understanding and applying biophilic design principles to improve health and well-being in urban environments.

Incorporate Natural Elements

Interior designers can incorporate natural materials such as wood, stone, and water features to evoke a sense of nature. These natural elements help create a more inviting and calming environment.

Maximize Natural Light

Designers should prioritize maximizing natural light in indoor spaces. Large windows, skylights, and strategically placed mirrors can help bring more natural light into the interior, enhancing the connection to the outdoors.

Use Biophilic Patterns

Biophilic design includes patterns, shapes, and textures that mimic those found in nature, such as fractals and organic forms. These patterns can be incorporated into interior finishes, fabrics, and furnishings.

Create Views of Nature

Designers can strategically position seating and workspaces to offer views of nature, whether it's through windows overlooking greenery, water features, or natural landscapes.

Integrate Indoor Plants

Incorporating indoor plants, living walls, or green roofs can help bring nature indoors. These improve air quality and enhance the overall aesthetic and well-being of occupants.

Provide Opportunities for Interaction

Interior spaces can be designed to encourage interaction with nature, such as creating outdoor seating areas, rooftop gardens, or indoor atriums where people can relax and connect with the natural environment.

Use Natural Colors

Choosing color palettes inspired by nature, such as earth tones, greens, and blues, can contribute to a calming and biophilic interior atmosphere.

Selecting building materials and finishes from natural, sustainable sources, like reclaimed wood and stone, aligns with the biophilic design principle and creates a tactile connection to nature.

Provide Water Features

The sound and sight of water through indoor fountains or aquariums can be soothing and evoke a sense of connection to natural environments.

Create Multi-Sensory Experiences

Biophilic design can engage multiple senses, including touch, smell, and sound. Incorporating elements like textured materials, natural scents, and ambient nature sounds can enhance the overall experience.

Leveraging the biophilia hypothesis in interior design creates healthier and more aesthetically pleasing spaces and contributes to improved mental well-being, reduced stress, increased productivity, and a stronger connection to the environment.

It aligns with the growing interest in designing spaces that prioritize occupant mental health issues and comfort in a sustainable and holistic manner

Plants in Interior Spaces

Plants play a central and integral role in biophilic design. This design philosophy recognizes the innate human connection to nature, also known as nature biophilia, and seeks to connect people with nature in the built environment.

Biophilic design incorporates natural elements into interior and architectural spaces, including plants.

Here’s how plants contribute to biophilic design:

Strengthening the Connection to Nature

Biophilic design aims to create spaces that evoke a sense of nature and bring the outdoors indoors. Plants through potted greenery, living walls, or indoor gardens serve as a direct link to the natural world, enhancing this connection.

Enhancing Visual and Aesthetic Appeal

Plants add beauty and visual interest to interior spaces. Their various shapes, colors, and textures create a visually stimulating environment that can reduce stress and enhance overall aesthetics.

Improving Air Quality

Many indoor plants purify the air by removing common pollutants. Incorporating air-purifying plants into a biophilic design enhances the visual appeal and contributes to a healthier indoor environment.

Promoting Well-Being

The presence of plants has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and increase feelings of well-being. Additionally, the presence of plants has been shown to reduce blood pressure, contributing to overall well-being. The biophilic design leverages these psychological benefits by strategically placing plants in areas where people spend time, such as offices, homes, and healthcare facilities.

Supporting Biophilic Patterns

Biophilic design principles often incorporate elements like fractal patterns found in nature and can be mirrored in plant arrangements. These patterns have been associated with relaxation and reduced stress.

Enhancing Acoustic Comfort

Some larger plants can help absorb sound, reduce noise levels in interior spaces, and contribute to acoustic comfort.

Providing Opportunities for Interaction

Biophilic design encourages interaction with nature through indoor gardens. Indoor gardens and living walls offer opportunities for people to engage with plants, whether through caring for them or simply enjoying their presence.

Creating Restorative Environments

Natural settings, including plant-filled spaces, have a restorative effect on mental fatigue and cognitive function. Biophilic design incorporates plants to help occupants relax and recharge.

Adapting to Seasonal Changes

Biophilic design can incorporate seasonal variations in plant selection, allowing occupants to experience different aspects of nature throughout the year, which adds interest and variety to the environment.

Supporting Sustainable Practices

Biophilic design often aligns with sustainability goals by promoting indoor plants that require minimal water and maintenance. This reinforces the connection between human well-being and environmental stewardship.

Plants in biophilic design are not merely decorative elements but essential components that foster a stronger connection to nature, enhance well-being, and contribute to a more sustainable and visually appealing built environment.

They create spaces that promote physical and psychological health while aligning with our innate affinity for the natural world.

Scientific Research on Indoor Plants' Wellness Effects

Scientific research has consistently demonstrated the positive impact of plants on health in interior spaces. Numerous studies have explored the physical and psychological benefits of indoor plants, and the following is a summary of key findings:

  1. Air Flow and Improvement:

  • In 1989, the NASA Clean Air Study found that the power of plants went far beyond absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen; many can also filter harmful chemicals from the air, such as benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene—all commonly found in everyday objects that surround us all the time in cities such as furniture and building material.

  1. Stress Reduction and Well-Being:

  • Research published in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology found that interaction with indoor plants can reduce physiological and psychological stress responses.

  • A study in the Journal of Environmental Psychology showed that the presence of indoor plants can improve overall well-being, including feelings of comfort and relaxation.

  1. Enhanced Cognitive Function:

  • Studies conducted at the University of Exeter found that introducing indoor plants in office environments led to a 15% increase in productivity and improved cognitive function.

  • Research published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that introducing indoor plants in a workspace can increase creativity and problem-solving abilities.

  1. Mood Enhancement:

  • A study in the Journal of Environmental Psychology reported that indoor plants positively influenced mood, with participants feeling happier and more comfortable in plant-filled spaces.

  1. Reduced Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) Symptoms:

  • Research conducted by the Agricultural University of Norway showed that introducing indoor plants reduced symptoms associated with SBS, such as dry throat, dry skin, and fatigue.

  1. Faster Recovery and Reduced Pain:

  • The American Society of Horticultural Science published a study indicating that patients recovering from surgery in rooms with indoor plants required less pain medication and had shorter hospital stays.

  1. Improved Humidity and Comfort:

  • Studies have shown that indoor plants release moisture through transpiration, which can help increase humidity levels, improve respiratory comfort, and reduce the incidence of conditions like dry skin and sore throats.

  1. Noise Reduction:

  • Research in the journal HortScience demonstrated that large, leafy indoor plants can help absorb and diffuse sound, reducing noise levels in interior spaces.

  1. Positive Biophilic Effects:

  • The concept of biophilia suggests that humans have an innate connection to nature. Studies have consistently shown that indoor plants can strengthen this connection, reducing stress and increasing feelings of well-being.

These studies collectively provide strong scientific evidence for the positive impact of indoor plants on health, well-being, and indoor environmental quality. Incorporating plants into interior spaces is a practical and effective way to create healthier and more comfortable living and working environments.

Can Ikigai Barcelona - biophilic interiors by Biofilico

Can Ikigai, Barcelona - biophilic interiors by Biofilico

Mental Benefits of Plants in Interior Spaces

  1. Stress Reduction and Mental Health: Interacting with indoor plants can help reduce stress and anxiety. Caring for plants, such as watering and pruning, can be meditative and calming.

  2. Improved Mood: Indoor plants have been shown to boost mood and promote well-being. Their presence can create a more pleasant and positive atmosphere.

  3. Enhanced Creativity: Some studies suggest indoor plants stimulate creativity and problem-solving, making them valuable in workspaces and creative environments.

  4. Increased Productivity: Indoor workplace plants have been associated with increased productivity and concentration. They can help reduce mental fatigue and improve focus.

  5. Improved Air Quality: The quality of the air is better, resulting from plants’ oxygen production, and air filtration capabilities can lead to improved mental clarity and alertness.

Physical Health Benefits of Plants in Interior Spaces

  1. Air Purification: Many indoor plants can remove pollutants and toxins from the air, such as formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene, contributing to improved indoor airflow.

  2. Humidity Regulation: Plants release water vapor through transpiration, which can help increase humidity levels in indoor spaces. This is particularly beneficial in dry environments and can help alleviate issues like dry skin and improve respiratory comfort.

  3. Noise Reduction: Some large, leafy plants can absorb sound, reducing noise levels in interior spaces. This can create a more peaceful and comfortable environment.

  4. Faster Healing: Studies have suggested that indoor plants can accelerate the healing process for individuals recovering from illness or surgery. Patients with access to greenery tend to require less pain medication and experience shorter hospital stays.

  5. Eye Comfort: Indoor plants can help reduce eye strain and discomfort associated with prolonged screen time by providing a soothing natural element to focus on.

  6. Biophilia Benefits: Biophilia, the innate human connection to nature, is nurtured by indoor plants. This connection can lead to reduced stress and an overall sense of well-being.

It’s important to note that while indoor plants offer these benefits, they also require proper care and maintenance. Overwatering or neglect can lead to mold growth and poor air circulation, which can have negative health consequences.

Therefore, it’s essential to choose plants that match your commitment and care for them accordingly to maximize the physical and mental health advantages they offer in indoor spaces.

Natural daylight and indoor plants

Light Requirements for Indoor Plants and Natural Daylight

The amount of light required for indoor plants varies depending on the type of plant. Different plant species have different light requirements, which are typically categorized into three main categories:

  1. High Light: These plants require direct or bright indirect sunlight for several hours each day. Examples include succulents, cacti, and many flowering plants.

  2. Medium Light: These plants thrive in indirect sunlight or in areas with filtered or dappled light. They can typically tolerate lower light conditions than high-light plants. Examples include pothos, spider plants, and peace lilies.

  3. Low Light: These plants can thrive in areas with minimal daylight, such as rooms with small or shaded windows. They can adapt to artificial lighting. Examples include snake plants, ZZ plants, and cast iron plants.

For interior designers looking to maximize available natural light and supplement with artificial lighting for plants, here are some strategies:

Maximizing Natural Light

  1. Use Reflective Surfaces: Incorporate light-colored and reflective surfaces, such as mirrors and light-colored paint or furnishings, to bounce natural light deeper into interior spaces.

  2. Optimize Window Placement: Position furniture and shelving to allow natural light to reach as many plants as possible. Avoid blocking windows with large obstructions.

  3. Choose Light-Friendly Window Treatments: Select window treatments like sheer curtains or blinds that allow natural light to filter through while maintaining privacy and controlling glare.

  4. Keep Windows Clean: Regularly clean windows to ensure maximum light transmission.

  5. Consider Skylights: If feasible, incorporate skylights or light tubes to bring natural light into interior spaces with limited windows.

Supplemental Artificial Lighting to support bringing the natural world inside

  1. LED Grow Lights: LED grow lights are energy-efficient and come in various spectra to cater to different plant needs. You can use these LED grow lights in areas with insufficient natural light or as a supplement to extend the daily light duration for plants.

  2. Position Lights Strategically: Place grow lights above or beside plants to mimic natural sunlight. Adjustable fixtures allow you to fine-tune the light intensity and direction.

  3. Use Timers: Install timers or smart plugs to automate the lighting schedule for your plants, ensuring they receive the right amount of light each day.

  4. Choose Full-Spectrum Lights: Full-spectrum LED grow lights closely mimic natural sunlight and provide a balanced spectrum for photosynthesis.

  5. Consider Light Reflectors: Reflective materials around plants can help maximize the use of artificial light by directing it back toward the plants.

  6. Adjust Light Duration: The duration of artificial lighting should match the specific needs of your plants. Most indoor plants require 12-16 hours of light per day.

By combining these strategies and selecting plants from the natural world that match the available light conditions, interior designers can create indoor environments that support healthy and thriving greenery while enhancing the overall aesthetic and functionality of the space.

Choosing the Right Plants for your Biophilic Interior

When choosing plant species to use in your next eco office interior or biophilic home, you should consider a few things to ensure your plant plan is sustainable and practical; let’s face it, nobody benefits from dead foliage.

Here are three questions to consider:

  1. What kind of light is available? Low light doesn’t necessarily present a problem, but it does mean you must choose plants that can thrive in dimmer conditions, such as Spider plants and Pothos plants.

  2. How much time can you commit to maintenance? A good biophilic design should enhance your life, not disrupt it. Plants that require less watering, like Snake plants and Aloe, tend to be hardier and won’t put a damper on your schedule.

  3. Which plants like or dislike each other? Placing your plants beside the wrong neighbours can be the difference between thriving greenery and stunted stems. Ensure you know who likes to bring out the best from your sprouts.

Best Indoor Air purifying Plants

Best Indoor Air-Purifying Plants

Indoor air-purifying plants are a natural and aesthetically pleasing way to improve indoor airflow and air levels by removing certain pollutants and toxins.

Here are some of the top air-purifying plants suitable for indoor use:

  1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata): Snake plants are known for their air-purifying abilities. They effectively remove formaldehyde, benzene, and other common indoor pollutants. They are also low-maintenance and can thrive in low-light conditions.

  2. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum): Spider plants greatly remove pollutants like formaldehyde and xylene. They are easy to care for and can adapt to various indoor environments.

  3. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum): Peace lilies are excellent at removing indoor air pollutants, including ammonia, benzene, and formaldehyde. They also add a touch of elegance to indoor spaces.

  4. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata): Boston ferns effectively remove pollutants like formaldehyde and xylene. They require regular moisture and indirect light to thrive.

  5. Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller): Aloe vera not only purifies the air by removing formaldehyde and benzene but also has healing properties for minor burns and skin irritations.

  6. Dracaena (Dracaena spp.): Dracaenas come in various varieties and are known for their air-purifying capabilities. They can help remove pollutants like xylene, trichloroethylene, and formaldehyde.

  7. Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii): Bamboo palms effectively remove indoor air pollutants, including formaldehyde and benzene. They also thrive in low-light conditions.

  8. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica): Rubber tree can remove indoor air pollutants like formaldehyde. They have attractive dark green leaves and can grow into a statement piece in your space.

  9. Gerbera Daisy (Gerbera jamesonii): Gerbera daisies are known for removing trichloroethylene, a common indoor pollutant. They also add vibrant color to your indoor environment.

  10. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum): Pothos is a hardy plant that can help remove indoor pollutants like formaldehyde and benzene. It’s a great choice for beginners due to its low maintenance requirements.

  11. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema): Chinese evergreens purify indoor air effectively. They’re also low-maintenance and thrive in low light.

  12. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia): ZZ plants, like snake plants, purify the air by absorbing toxins. Their succulent-like structure withstands drought and missed waterings, making them low-maintenance with gorgeous foliage.

  13. Areca Palm (Dypsis): Areca palms are effective air purifiers, removing toxins like formaldehyde and xylene. They also add humidity to the air, enhancing overall indoor air quality.

  14. Philodendron: Philodendrons purify the air by removing toxins like formaldehyde and benzene. Their beautiful foliage adds aesthetic appeal while improving indoor air quality.

  15. English Ivy (Hedera helix): English ivy purifies the air by effectively removing mold spores and common toxins like formaldehyde and benzene. Its attractive, cascading foliage also enhances the visual appeal of indoor spaces.

Remember that while these plants can help improve indoor airflow, they should not be relied upon as the sole method of air purification in environments with high pollution levels. Proper ventilation and other airflow measures may also be necessary for more effective results.

What are the best case studies showing the benefits of indoor plants in creating a healthy workplace?

While numerous case studies and research findings demonstrate how indoor plants contribute to creating a healthy office environment, a few notable examples are frequently cited to illustrate the positive impact of plants on workplace well-being. Here are some of the most commonly referenced case studies:

  1. NASA Clean Air Study: While not specifically an office environment, this seminal study conducted by NASA in the late 1980s identified a range of houseplants that effectively remove indoor air pollutants. It laid the foundation for using indoor plants to improve air quality in various settings, including offices.

  2. Texas A&M University Study (2010): Researchers at Texas A&M University conducted a study examining indoor plants’ effects on employee well-being and productivity in a controlled office environment. The findings indicated that the presence of plants significantly increased productivity and reduced stress levels among employees.

  3. Ambius “The Power of Plants in the Workplace” (2014): Ambius, a leading provider of interior landscaping services, conducted a comprehensive study that surveyed over 7,600 office workers across 16 countries. The research found that office plants positively impacted airflow, reduced stress, and improved overall well-being and productivity.

  4. University of Exeter Study (2014): Researchers at the University of Exeter in the United Kingdom conducted a study investigating the effects of office plants on worker productivity. They found that introducing plants into the office environment led to a 15% increase in productivity.

  5. The WELL Building Standard Case Studies: The WELL Building Standard, a performance-based system for measuring and certifying building features that impact health and well-being, includes numerous case studies highlighting the benefits of incorporating plants into office designs. These case studies showcase how plants contribute to improved ventilation, reduced stress, and enhanced workplace employee satisfaction.

  6. IKEA’s “The Green Cube” (2016): IKEA created a temporary office space in Milan, Italy, known as “The Green Cube.” The office was filled with indoor plants designed to demonstrate greenery’s positive effects on employee well-being and productivity. The project received significant attention and is a practical example of biophilic design in the workplace.

These case studies, among others, provide valuable evidence of the positive impact of indoor plants on ventilation, employee health, and workplace productivity.

They demonstrate the potential benefits of incorporating greenery into office environments and offer practical insights for interior designers and employers seeking to create healthier and more productive workspaces.

Top Case Studies on Indoor Plants for a Healthy Home

University of Technology Sydney Study (2015)

Researchers at the University of Technology Sydney conducted a study investigating indoor plants’ impact on perceived air quality and well-being in residential settings. The results showed that indoor plants can effectively reduce pollutants and improve perceived air quality.

University of Reading and Royal Horticultural Society Study (2015)

This research examined the impact of indoor plants on well-being and airflow in homes. The study found that houseplants can remove significant indoor air pollutants and contribute to a sense of well-being and happiness among residents.

RMIT University Study (2016)

Researchers at RMIT University in Australia studied the benefits of indoor plants in residential environments. The findings suggested that indoor plants can improve airflow, reduce stress, and enhance home cognitive function.

Ambius “Global Impact of Biophilic Design in the Home” (2016)

This study conducted by Ambius, a provider of interior landscaping services, explored the impact of biophilic design elements, including indoor plants, in residential settings. It found that plants contribute to improved air quality and home well-being.

Bayer Environmental Science Study (2020)

Bayer’s “Global Green Spaces” research initiative examined the role of green spaces, including indoor plants, in urban environments. The study emphasized the importance of indoor plants in enhancing air quality and well-being within homes.

 
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Matt Morley Matt Morley

A dose of nature - NHS report

A short report by the NHS Forest Organization pulls together some of the increasingly compelling evidence on the physiological and psychological benefits of what's known as a Green Prescription, or in our terminology a hit of Vitamin N(ature).

A precise explanation for the science behind this phenomena remains largely out of the realm of most medical doctors yet one only has to look at it from an evolutionary perspective to understand that over 2.5 million years of history living in a natural context isn't something that evaporates in just a few hundred years of industrial society. 

Our ancestors survived day by day thanks to their ability to relate to and work with, not against, the seasons, animals and vegetation. 

The Japanese, Koreans and Taiwanese all have programs of so-called forest bathing in place, as the report mentions:

There is clinical evidence in Asia, published in the Journal of Cardiology, that spending time in a forest has therapeutic effects on hypertension...

Something similar is happening in New Zealand too where studies have shown that

..a green prescription increases activity levels and improves quality of life over 12 months without evidence of adverse effects.

Hospitals have also discovered the benefits of nature for patients:

Nature also reduces the experience of pain... A picture of a nature scene by the bed and an audio tape of nature sounds have been shown via an RCT to significantly reduce pain in patients

It's with the psychological benefits that things start to get really interesting however, especially for a project like Biofit where we are essentially dealing with healthy students looking for a more natural solution to keeping fit in the city.

Exercising in natural environments, as opposed to the usual indoor urban gym, have been shown to stimulate feelings of revitalization, restore attention and improve both mood and self-esteem.

Other nature hacks are to spend time close to water, the coast and animals. 

There's lots more here so click through to read the full report online.

http://nhsforest.org/sites/default/files/Dose_of_Nature_evidence_report_0.pdf

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Matt Morley Matt Morley

Forest bathing - what is it and how can it benefit your health?

 
clearing-in-the-woods.jpg

The Japanese have been digging into the benefits of what they call "shinrin yoku" (forest bathing) for a fair while now and scientific research into the benefits of breathing in the essential oils that dense forests release into the air in particular continues to mount up. Shinrin yoku, also known as forest bathing, literally means bathing in the forest atmosphere - taking it in through all of our senses. This unique feeling is supposed to make us feel calm and comforted, through the means of the sounds, scents and fresh clean air from the forest.

What is forest bathing and how does it work?

Forest bathing therapy doesn’t entail any kind of exercise, even though it might seem like so. Having that in mind, how can you start practising forest therapy?

Namely, forest therapy refers to connecting with nature by using the forest bathing therapy (or shinrin yoku) as a bridge that will make an interrelation between yourself and the nature surrounding you.

The key of forest bathing success lies in the simple fact - in this modern world we have never been more disconnected from nature, so “divorced” from it. We have grown so accustomed to technology, became so dependent on it, that we no longer know how to reset and slow down. Forest therapy is one of means to do so - it can help you step back into the present moment, relax you and, at the same time, have an infinite positive effect on your health.

trees-in-the-woods.jpg

Forest bathing and the science behind it

By now, you have probably gathered that our senses are the key of invoking the power and potency of forest bathing. However, if our five senses are the mediums, something must stimulate them, and that something is called phytoncides.

What are phytoncides?

Phytoncides are airborne anti-microbial substances that trees release as a way to fight off disease and harmful substances, If you've ever wandered through a remote pine forest you'll no doubt recall the distinct scent of that experience but there is a tangible, self-defence rationale behind it all too from the forest's perspective.

Studies have shown that breathing in phytoncides while walking in a forest has beneficial effects on human Natural Killer (NK) blood cells that help fight virus-infected cells, a tangible immune system boost that can last for up to 30 days. 

Cedar, oak and pine are all examples of trees that give off plenty of this type of essential oil, the latter in particular has attracted our attention as we used pine wood for our balance beams and pull-up bars in the Biofit Calgary fitness studio. We now gently diffuse 100% natural pine oil during class as a way to borrow some of the plant's positive health benefits for our clients. Biophilia and natural health in action right there people!

Forest bathing benefits - health benefits of forest bathing

When it comes to forest bathing benefits - there are plenty, both for mental and physical wellbeing. With that in mind, here are some of the greatest benefits of forest bathing.

Stress and anxiety reduction

It has been scientifically proven that leisure walks through the forest can decrease as much as 12.4 percent of cortisol, the stress hormone, which is more than an urban walk could ever provide.

Creativity boost

Certain studies have shown that participants who have utilized forest bathing therapy, have experienced as much as 50% of improvement in the domain of creative problem solving, solely after three days of being separated from any kind of technology.

Mood improvement

When it comes to some of the most obvious forest bathing health benefits, it was shown that a connection with nature helps with mood improvement, by releasing hormones relating to joy, happiness and calmness.

Forest bathing immune system benefits

The aforementioned phytoncides are what enforces the key benefits for the human immune system, through forest bathing. These airborne particles enhance the activity of our defence mechanism and help us fight diseases.

Speeds up illness recovery

Forest bathing therapy is powerful when it comes to accelerating our recovery from illness, with the explanation being in nature acting as a catalyst of the recovery process.

Reduction of high blood pressure

Unfortunately, we are all too aware of the dangers of high blood pressure and what consequences it can cause. Taking this into account, recent studies have shown the sudden drops in blood pressure in forest surroundings, in comparison to more civic encirclement.

girl-in-the-forest.jpg

How to start forest bathing?

If you were wondering is there a forest therapy guide or could it be just as easy as walking through the woods, here is how you can start.

Find a spot and tune in all your senses

You don’t have to travel deep into the woods in order to start forest bathing therapy. It is sufficient to find a spot in some green area, relax, and allow your senses to be overwhelmed by sensations surrounding you.

Try out some different activities and appreciate the silence around you

Once you’ve mastered slow walking, you can start including some more complex activities, such as yoga, meditation, writing something, exploring and so on. However, never forget that you’ve started the therapy in order to appreciate silence again.

Noise pollution has become the inseparable part of our urban lives, which is why silence has become restorative. Learn to appreciate it again, the sound of the forest, so different than the invasive sounds we grew accustomed to, and, if nothing else, remember that you are part of the larger whole, and become more appreciative of others, as well as yourself.

Forest bathing science

If you are interested to know more about forest bathing benefits, explained through the binoculars of science, read the full research report from Japan online here and find out more the grateful effects of forest therapy.

 
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Matt Morley Matt Morley

9 Tips for Biophilic Living

9 Tips for Biophilic Living

Here are our top tips for an evolution friendly 21st century lifestyle that is in tune with both ancestral and primal health principles, as well as biophilic and wellness-oriented design. 

biophilic wallpaper

Connect with nature outside

Spend time outside in nature whenever possible, be it in 'green spaces' (gardens, parks and forests) or 'blue' (near rivers, seas and lakes), whether for 20-minutes, two hours or two days. Reconnecting with the elements has a restorative affect and helps counterbalance the negative impact of high-stress urban routines as it allows our senses to kick in to overdrive and certain parts of our brain to switch off.

Leverage the health benefits of Biophilic Design

We spend 90% of our lives indoors so bring the outside in to maintain your levels of Vitamin Nature around the home, office and gym. Go big on air-purifying plants such as Mother-in-Law's tongue; incorporate wood, bamboo, leather, and marble into your home decor; prioritize natural daylight and ventilation via open windows and balconies; use large format images of natural landscapes on the walls and incorporate circadian lighting that energizes with blue-white tones by day and amber tones after dark to improve sleep patterns.

Eat a Real Food Diet

Base your diet around an abundance of organic, seasonal fruit and vegetables with meat and fish in moderation. Cut out processed foods with long ingredient lists and reduce your intake of bread, pasta and other high-carb 'plate fillers' with minimal nutrient value. Consider not just what you eat but where it came from and how it made the journey from farm to table.

Movement and physical activity

Move every darn day, no excuses! Whether it be walking or cycling to work, a simple morning stretch routine or a full-on biofit style gym session using sandbags, medicine balls, beams and ropes that encourages 100% mindful engagement rather than high-tech machinery that invites you to switch off from the task in hand. Our genetic code was written when we needed to hunt and forage in order to survive, creating a direct correlation between movement and sustenance; now that link has been broken and calories are so easy to come by, it is imperative we find other ways to keep active.

Mental and physical restoration

Respect your body's need for rest, typically 7-8 hours of sleep per night. Work out what you need personally to operate at 100% every day then protect those hours as doggedly as you can. Avoid all sources of blue light such as TV, phone or computer screens 1-2 hours before bed, use blackout blinds in the bedroom and install a light system with warm amber hues for use after dark to ensure a solid night's sleep. 

Practice Mindfulness

Train your mind like a muscle, it is your greatest asset. Learn a language, study for a qualification, practice meditation or try a dance class to mix things up. Our brain's capacity to develop new neurological pathways directly equates to skill development and nothing has been more instrumental in our rise to the top of the evolutionary tree; use it or lose it however so keep your mind active!

Go barefoot

Take your shoes off in the home, gym and even office (when appropriate!) allowing your feet time to connect with the ground while activating the 26 tiny bones in each foot that might otherwise remain dormant in thick-soled or high-heeled shoes all day long. As this sensation becomes steadily more comfortable, consider a pair of minimalist sports shoes with 'zero drop' (i.e. no raised heel) to replicate a more natural stance even when moving around outside.  

Build your tribe of social connections

Find and foster your tribe; we evolved in small groups making us inherently social animals with an innate psychological need to bond, connect and share with others yet modern technologies tend to encourage isolation. The biological need remains however so find your people, wherever they are.

Sit less / use active workstations

Static seated positions negatively affect the lower back, posture and hip mobility; break the habit of our adult lives by finding alternatives to endless hours at a desk or table. Consider periods working at a high table or standing desk, experiment with a Swiss ball and try to change position at least once each hour to give the body a chance to balance itself out over the day.

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