Blossom in May

Love nature……evidently

A study of Zhang et al. (2024) suggests that certain patterns of colours and combinations provide a generic response in enhancing emotional well-being of individuals; a point that can be exploited in designed therapeutic landscapes. More and more we are aware of the effect of our surroundings and the environment on our health and well-being. Even on governmental level there is attention for the effect of landscapes on the population and inhabitants.

Some what pendant to that subject is the negative effect on well-being when Fall and Winter arrive, and the days get shorter. Seasonal Affect Disorder affects the mood of many people during different seasons and can even manifest during Spring or Summer, however less common (National Institute of Mental Health, 2023).

Research today finds positive effects for nature-based interventions in mental health development. Evidence from a systematic review suggests that some nature-based interventions, such as walking, can  improve adults’ moods, sense of optimism, mental well-being and nature-connectedness (Ma et al., 2023).

Zhang, Liwen & Dempsey, Nicola & Cameron, Ross. (2024). ‘Blossom Buddies’ − How do flower colour combinations affect emotional response and influence therapeutic landscape design?. Landscape and Urban Planning. 248. 105099. 10.1016/j.landurbplan.2024.105099.

National Institute of Mental Health (2023, revised) https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/seasonal-affective-disorder

Ma, Jingni & Lin, Peilin & Williams, Joanne. (2023). Effectiveness of nature-based walking interventions in improving mental health in adults: a systematic review. Current Psychology. 43. 1-19. 10.1007/s12144-023-05112-z.