Scientific evidence of the positive impact of nature on the brain

In the context of rapid urbanization, where by 2050, approximately 90% of the US population (and a significant portion of the global population) will be living in cities, the integration of natural areas into urban environments is becoming not just a matter of aesthetics, but a public health priority. Researchers emphasize that environmental factors play an equally important role in shaping brain health as genetics. The collective cognitive and emotional resources of individuals are collectively referred to as “brain capital,” and maintaining a healthy environment is crucial for its growth and preservation.

The team analyzed data from 33 studies involving more than 2,100 participants. The main method of monitoring brain activity was electroencephalography (EEG), which used special sensory caps to record brain responses in real-time. The meta-analysis evaluated three main exposure formats: visual imagery, virtual reality (VR), and real-world outdoor activities.

Comparison of different exposure formats:

The analysis showed that healthy people have a balanced psychological response: nature simultaneously fuels positive feelings and suppresses negative ones. Even brief visual contact with greenery through photographs has a measurable effect on well-being.

One of the researchers’ main goals is to develop so-called “Nature Rx” (Nature Prescriptions). These are personalized recommendations for environmental contact aimed at preventing and treating mental disorders throughout a person’s life. To achieve this goal, scientists plan to expand the use of artificial intelligence in data analysis and implement more complex metrics, such as the functional connectivity of brain regions.

Currently, the BRAIN Center in Houston is conducting a local study in one of the city’s neighborhoods and on the campus of the university’s pollinator gardens. The goal is to explore the neural mechanisms that are activated when individuals interact with “green corridors” within the city. This research aims to help urban planners design spaces that automatically promote the emotional well-being of residents.