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Fan L, Baharum MR. The effects of digital nature and actual nature on stress reduction: A meta-analysis and systematic review. Internet Interv 2024; 38:100772. [PMID: 39329057 PMCID: PMC11426060 DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2024.100772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 08/17/2024] [Accepted: 09/10/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives The study aims to conduct a systematic literature review and meta-analysis to assess the effects of digital nature and actual nature on stress reduction. Methods In August 2023, Web of Science, Scopus, ProQuest, PubMed, and EBSCOhost databases were used, and ten articles were in the analysis, with a total sample size of 886 participants. Studies within- or between-subjects design conducted in either a randomized controlled trial or a quasi-experimental design were included. No restriction was put on the year of publication or geographical region. Conference papers and dissertations were also included whereas, book chapters were excluded. Participants included those who were exposed to at least one form of digital nature exposure, such as static images, videos, 360° pictures, and 360° videos. The risk of bias determined through Review Manager 5.4 was used to assess the quality of the studies. STATA software package version 16 was used for visual analysis of funnel plots. For the assessment of potential publication bias, Egger's test was implemented. Results Digital natural environments had the same level of stress recovery compared to actual environmental exposures with the same intervention content (SMD = -0.01; 95% CI: -0.15, 0.12). Subgroup analyses and meta-regression indicated that subjective or physiological stress measures, level of immersion, and data extraction method were not associated with pooled effect stress recovery. All subgroups showed comparable stress levels in both conditions. In addition, all included studies had different levels of risk of bias (low, moderate, and high). Conclusions The present study concludes that previous research has generally shown that stress levels are reduced in both digital and actual natural environments. The results of the meta-analysis support this conclusion with no significant differences between the two modes of stress recovery through nature viewing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luyao Fan
- Faculty of Built Environment, Universiti Malaya, Malaysia
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Zhang P, Cui Y, Luo K, Zhang T, Yang Y, Li J, Chen M, Chen H, He Q, Yu Z, Wang G, Wang X, Guo W, Li X, Ma J. Examining the audiovisual therapy effects on hospital groups of varying linear canopy landscapes and those with hydrodynamic forces. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1324260. [PMID: 39290411 PMCID: PMC11405331 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1324260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent research has highlighted the beneficial effects of urban green spaces on physical and mental health. This study focused on the hospital population and innovatively subdivided the population into four groups: doctors, caregivers, patients and nurses. A total of 96 volunteers participated in this virtual reality experiment to assess the restoration of a linear canopy landscape and a landscape with different levels of hydrodynamics through interactive audiovisual immersion. We utilized pre-research method, brainwave monitoring technique, psychological scales, observation and interviews in this experiment. The research identified five key findings. First, both linear canopy landscapes and those with low to medium hydrodynamic forces significantly enhance physiological and psychological restoration for all groups, with the most substantial physiological benefits observed in doctors and patients, and the greatest psychological relief noted in caregivers. Second, landscapes with medium hydrodynamic forces yield higher restorative effects than those with low forces in hospital settings. Third, green landscapes with medium and low-density canopies prove more conducive to patient recovery compared to those with high-density canopies. Fourth, the inclusion of bird songs does not markedly affect physiological restoration across the hospital groups. Finally, landscapes that incorporate elements of water dynamics, open skies, and lightly foliated canopies draw significant interest from all groups involved. This study advocates for the integration of natural blue and green elements into hospital environments as complementary therapeutic interventions, aiming to alleviate stress and promote health recovery among hospital communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Zhang
- College of Landscape Architecture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yixin Cui
- College of Landscape Architecture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ke Luo
- College of Landscape Architecture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tongyao Zhang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wenchuan Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Wenchuan, China
| | - Yanbin Yang
- College of Landscape Architecture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jinpeng Li
- College of Landscape Architecture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Mingze Chen
- Department of Forest and Resources Management, Faculty of Forestry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Hao Chen
- The 3rd People's Hospital of Wuhou, Chengdu, China
| | - Qianyi He
- College of Landscape Architecture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zheng Yu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wenchuan Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Wenchuan, China
| | - Guangyu Wang
- Department of Forest and Resources Management, Faculty of Forestry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Xiaohua Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Sichuan Province Forestry Central Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Weiquan Guo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Sichuan Province Forestry Central Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Xi Li
- College of Landscape Architecture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jun Ma
- College of Landscape Architecture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
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Li H, Zhang G. How can plant-enriched natural environments benefit human health: a narrative review of relevant theories. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2024; 34:1241-1254. [PMID: 36697394 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2023.2170990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Plant-enriched environments, the most common terrestrial landscapes, are usually coded as "green space" in urban studies. To understand how these natural environments can benefit human health, many theories have been developed, such as the well-known Attention Restoration Theory. Nowadays, more theories are emerging with regard to various and complex health dimensions. In this context, we searched online databases (from 2000 to 2022) and conducted a narrative review aiming to introduce relevant theories concerning psychological (e.g. Perceptual Fluency Account and Conditioned Restoration Theory), physiological (e.g. volatile organic compounds and environmental microbiomes), and behavioural (e.g. physical activity and social contact) perspectives. We also slightly mentioned some limitations and directions to be considered when using these theories. These results may offer general readers insights into the value of nature exposure and also help relevant researchers with study design and result interpretation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hansen Li
- Key Laboratory of Physical Fitness Evaluation and Motor Function Monitoring, Institute of Sports Science, College of Physical Education, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Guodong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Physical Fitness Evaluation and Motor Function Monitoring, Institute of Sports Science, College of Physical Education, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
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Lau SSS, Leung SSK, Wong JWC, Lee TCP, Cartwright SR, Wong JTC, Man J, Cheung E, Choi RPW. Brief repeated virtual nature contact for three weeks boosts university students' nature connectedness and psychological and physiological health during the COVID-19 pandemic: A pilot study. Front Public Health 2023; 10:1057020. [PMID: 36711407 PMCID: PMC9878182 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1057020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic and its associated uncertainties and restrictions have adverse impacts on university students' mental wellbeing. Evidence shows that virtual nature contact has mental health benefits. However, little is known about the potential beneficial health impacts of virtual nature contact during times of social distancing, when access to the natural environment is restricted. This pilot study aimed to examine the effectiveness of a 3-week virtual nature contact in improving nature connectedness and reducing psychophysiological stress. A sample of 56 university students in Hong Kong was randomly assigned to control and nature interventions using 2-D video played for 15 min three times a week for 3 weeks. Nature connectedness, perceived restorativeness and psycho-physiological wellbeing were measured. Our findings show significant changes in psychological stress levels after nature interventions compared with the baseline, including increased happiness and stronger emotions of comfort and relaxation. When compared with the control group, the results show the nature intervention group has significantly higher levels of nature connectedness, happiness, and positive affect, but no significant effects on other psychological and physiological variables (e.g., cardiovascular responses). Our preliminary findings highlight the potential use of virtual nature contacts in bolstering university students' wellbeing at times of pandemic or when in-person visit to the natural environment is not feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam S. S. Lau
- Research Centre for Environment and Human Health, School of Continuing Education, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China,College of International Education, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China,Multidisciplinary Research Centre, School of Continuing Education, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China,Institute of Bioresources and Agriculture, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China,*Correspondence: Sam S. S. Lau ✉
| | - Sharron S. K. Leung
- Research Centre for Environment and Human Health, School of Continuing Education, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China,Division of Nursing Education, School of Continuing Education, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jonathan W. C. Wong
- Institute of Bioresources and Agriculture, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China,Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Terence C. P. Lee
- Research Centre for Environment and Human Health, School of Continuing Education, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China,College of International Education, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Stephen R. Cartwright
- Research Centre for Environment and Human Health, School of Continuing Education, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China,College of International Education, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Janet T. C. Wong
- Research Centre for Environment and Human Health, School of Continuing Education, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jackie Man
- Research Centre for Environment and Human Health, School of Continuing Education, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China,Multidisciplinary Research Centre, School of Continuing Education, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ethan Cheung
- Research Centre for Environment and Human Health, School of Continuing Education, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China,Multidisciplinary Research Centre, School of Continuing Education, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Regene P. W. Choi
- Research Centre for Environment and Human Health, School of Continuing Education, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Yuan S, Tao F, Li Y. The Restorative Effects of Virtual Reality Forests on Elderly Individuals During the COVID-19 Lockdown. J ORGAN END USER COM 2022. [DOI: 10.4018/joeuc.297626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
This study focuses on the restorative effects of immersive virtual reality (VR) forest experiences on elderly people during the COVID-19 lockdown. A field experiment with 63 elderly participants was conducted in an elderly care institution in China. The results showed that a five-minute VR forest experience with three minutes of subsequent reliving can bring immediate psychological improvements (i.e., increased positive affect, decreased negative affect, and enhanced stress recovery) to elderly individuals. The negative affect decrease and stress recovery enhancement were more obvious among introverted individuals. Furthermore, participating in three VR forest experiences over 3 consecutive days can bring continuous psychological improvements. Moreover, short VR forest experiences were unable to significantly decrease the blood pressure of participants. The effects of three VR experiences over 3 days on blood pressure improvement were also nonsignificant. Additionally, VR forest experiences can increase elderly participants’ intentions to undertake real forest therapy.
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Explore the Benefits of Natural Air: New Insights from Field and Chamber Tests on Cognitive Performance. ATMOSPHERE 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/atmos13071006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to natural environments has a range of health benefits, including enhancing psychological restoration and cognitive development. While there are various explanations on the causes for the benefits of the natural exposure, such as less air pollution and noise, more physical activity, stronger social interactions, or even more diverse microbial community, etc., this study has zeroed in on the air quality of the natural environment. In addition to low-level pollution, what makes the natural air superior remains unclear. To this end, we conducted a series of psychological evaluation and cognitive tests on a couple of subjects in a national forest park in southwest China. Based on the results, we built an artificial chamber where selected air parameters can be independently manipulated and carried out similar tests in the chamber. We came to the following conclusion. (1) Exposure to real natural environment demonstrated tangible benefits for cognitive performances and mental states and the benefits can be obtained to some extent in the artificial environment by creating air qualities similar to the air in the natural environment. (2) Scents in natural environments may be one of the key beneficial factors. (3) Adopting proper cognitive test is critical for distinguishing the differences made by the natural exposure. Working memory showed marked responses to the natural exposure.
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Garza-Terán G, Tapia-Fonllem C, Fraijo-Sing B, Borbón-Mendívil D, Poggio L. Impact of Contact With Nature on the Wellbeing and Nature Connectedness Indicators After a Desertic Outdoor Experience on Isla Del Tiburon. Front Psychol 2022; 13:864836. [PMID: 35719518 PMCID: PMC9204234 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.864836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Nature connectedness is determined by the representation individuals have about themselves within nature. This concept is often studied in relation to the direct contact individuals have with natural environment, which according to some studies have demonstrated to generate positive effects by fostering a feeling of connecting and bonding with nature, as well as improving their wellbeing. The main focus of this study was to calculate and assess the relation between Nature Connectedness and wellbeing of participants. The methodological approach of this research reaches quantitative data comparing results obtained from both samples, as well as correlations between the variables. The sample for this study was composed by two groups of university students (M = 25 years old). Both contrast group (n = 32) and experience group (n = 29) filled the questionnaire in two separate moments and in different environments. First data collection moment for both groups was held inside a university classroom. A second moment of data collection was carried out after a month from the first application, having the contrast group answer the questionnaire on a classroom again whilst the experience group responded it during an excursion to Isla Del Tiburon in Northwestern Mexico after performing some recreational activities being totally immersed in a local desertic environment. Questionnaire was composed by a 6 point Likert type scale measuring Nature Connectedness through concepts such as Nature relatedness and Love and care for the natural, as well as Subjective and Psychological Wellbeing of participants. Results show that both wellbeing and Nature Connectedness are positively influenced by performing activities out in the natural environment. This work was also conducted in response to the need to understand the full extent of Contact and Connectedness to nature, carrying out an exploratory study in desertic settings when much of the early work centers around the study of these variables in green nature environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glenda Garza-Terán
- Programs of Master and Doctorate in Psychology, University of Sonora, Hermosillo, Mexico
| | - Cesar Tapia-Fonllem
- Programs of Master and Doctorate in Psychology, University of Sonora, Hermosillo, Mexico
| | - Blanca Fraijo-Sing
- Programs of Master and Doctorate in Psychology, University of Sonora, Hermosillo, Mexico
| | | | - Lucía Poggio
- Departamento de Psicología Social, del Trabajo y Diferencial, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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Alyan E, Combe T, Awang Rambli DR, Sulaiman S, Merienne F, Diyana N. The Influence of Virtual Forest Walk on Physiological and Psychological Responses. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:11420. [PMID: 34769937 PMCID: PMC8583635 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182111420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The authors of this paper sought to investigate the impact of virtual forest therapy based on realistic versus dreamlike environments on reducing stress levels. Today, people are facing an increase in stress levels in everyday life, which may be due to personal life, work environment, or urban area expansion. Previous studies have reported that urban environments demand more attention and mental workload than natural environments. However, evidence for the effects of natural environments as virtual forest therapy on stress levels has not yet been fully explored. In this study, a total of 20 healthy participants completed a letter-detection test to increase their stress level and were then randomly assigned to two different virtual environments representing realistic and dreamlike graphics. The participants' stress levels were assessed using two physiological methods that measured heart rate and skin conductance levels and one psychological method through the Profile of Mood States (POMS) questionnaire. These indicators were analyzed using a sample t-test and a one-way analysis of variance. The results showed that virtual forest environments could have positive stress-relieving effects. However, realistic graphics were more efficient in reducing stress. These findings contribute to growing forest therapy concepts and provide new directions for future forest therapy research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emad Alyan
- Department of Computer and Information Sciences, University Teknologi PETRONAS, Seri Iskandar 32610, Perak, Malaysia; (T.C.); (S.S.)
| | - Theo Combe
- Department of Computer and Information Sciences, University Teknologi PETRONAS, Seri Iskandar 32610, Perak, Malaysia; (T.C.); (S.S.)
| | - Dayang Rohaya Awang Rambli
- Department of Computer and Information Sciences, University Teknologi PETRONAS, Seri Iskandar 32610, Perak, Malaysia; (T.C.); (S.S.)
| | - Suziah Sulaiman
- Department of Computer and Information Sciences, University Teknologi PETRONAS, Seri Iskandar 32610, Perak, Malaysia; (T.C.); (S.S.)
| | - Frederic Merienne
- Arts et Metiers Institute of Technology, LISPEN, HESAM Université, F-71100 Chalon-sur-Saône, France;
| | - Nadia Diyana
- School of Multimedia Technology and Communication, University Utara Malaysia, Sintok 06010, Kedah, Malaysia;
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