NATURE’S PSYCHOLOGICAL IMPACT Humans rely on circadian rhythms that control our body cycle throughout each day including sleep and heartbeat. Circadian rhythms are dependent almost solely on the sun. Our mental and physical health is dependent on these rhythms and therefore our exposure to natural light is essential. In areas where sun is limited, an individual’s circadian rhythm will be disrupted. This often results in confusion, depression and other negative psychological effects.9 In her book, The Nature Fix, Florence Williams expands on the psychological impact of nature. She states that nature has become more than just a tool for survival, it evokes happiness and peacefulness - helping us stay composed, clear-minded and positive. Because humans have spent the majority of our time in nature, our brains are still adapted to the natural environment. She writes that “during everyday life, a feeling of comfort can be achieved if our rhythms are synchronized with those of the environment.”10 Subconsciously or not, our brains are happier and more alive when in a natural environment. Harry Mallgrave explains that when we have a positive emotional response to something, like a sunset or a beautiful mountain view, a hedonic sensation is activated. Dopamine is then released into our blood and we experience happiness.11 Although happiness can be brought on by experiences not having to deal with nature, research proves the impact that nature has on our 9 Matus, Vladimir. Design for Northern Climates: Cold-Climate Planning and Environmental Design. New York, NY: Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1988, 14. 10 Williams, Florence. The Nature Fix: Why Nature Makes Us Happier, Healthier, and More Creative. NY, New York: W.W. Norton & Company, 2017, 23. 11 Mallgrave, Harry Francis. “Cognition in the Flesh… The Human in Design”. Thresholds no. 42: 76-87. Avery Index to Architectural Periodicals, 2014, 81.
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