Vertical gardens, also known as green walls or living walls, are a form of urban agriculture that involves growing plants vertically on walls, fences, or other structures. They are not only visually appealing but also provide numerous benefits to the environment and the people who live and work in the surrounding areas. In recent years, the idea of using vertical gardens as a form of eco-therapy has gained popularity, and for good reason.

“Nature has a way of soothing the mind and calming the senses,” says the National Wildlife Federation. “Being in green spaces has been linked to decreased symptoms of depression and improved mood,”

And the data backs them up. Studies have shown that spending time in green spaces can have positive effects on our mental and physical health, making them an ideal tool for promoting well-being. Let’s take a closer look at the psychological and physiological benefits of spending time in green spaces and how vertical gardens can be used to promote well-being.

The Psychological Benefits of Spending Time in Green Spaces

Studies have shown that exposure to green spaces can have a calming effect on the mind and body, reducing stress and improving mood. This is because being surrounded by greenery helps to lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, in the body. As a result, people who spend time in green spaces tend to feel more relaxed and less anxious.

The science behind the benefits of greenery and nature on stress levels is rooted in the concept of biophilia, which suggests that humans have an inherent connection to and affection for nature. Studies have shown that spending time in green spaces and surrounded by nature can significantly reduce cortisol levels, the primary stress hormone in the body. Cortisol is released in response to stress and triggers a chain of physiological responses that can be detrimental to health in the long term. Exposure to nature has been shown to decrease cortisol levels by inducing a state of relaxation and reducing physiological arousal. Additionally, the sight of greenery has been shown to stimulate the production of endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers and mood elevators. Green spaces can also help to improve mood and promote feelings of happiness.

“Green spaces provide an opportunity for people to connect with nature, which can have a positive impact on mood and overall well-being,” says Dr. Elizabeth Whitson, a researcher and expert in the field of environmental psychology. This is because spending time in green spaces allows us to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with the natural world.

The Physiological Benefits of Spending Time in Green Spaces

In addition to the psychological benefits of spending time in green spaces, there are also numerous physiological benefits. For example, exposure to green spaces has been shown to have a positive effect on heart rate and blood pressure, which can help to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. According to Harvard University, “Studies have shown that exposure to green spaces can have a positive impact on cardiovascular health, including reducing blood pressure and improving heart rate.”

The United States Environmental Protection Agency notes that, “Green spaces can also help to improve air quality by filtering pollutants and providing a source of fresh oxygen.” This is because plants have the ability to absorb and filter pollutants from the air, providing a healthier environment for people to live and work in.

How Vertical Gardens Can Promote Well-Being

Vertical gardens are an excellent tool for promoting well-being because they bring the benefits of green spaces right into our homes, offices, and public spaces. “Vertical gardens provide the benefits of green spaces in areas where they might not otherwise be available, such as in urban environments, notes Green Wall Systems.

In addition to being an attractive visual feature, vertical gardens can also have a positive impact on indoor air quality. By filtering pollutants from the air, they help to create a healthier indoor environment, which can be particularly important for people who spend a lot of time indoors, such as office workers.

Vertical gardens can also be designed to incorporate a range of different plants, each with their own unique benefits. For example, some plants have been shown to have a calming effect, while others can help to improve focus and concentration. By choosing the right plants for your vertical garden, you can tailor it to meet your specific needs and promote well-being.

“Incorporating a vertical garden into indoor spaces can help improve air quality and provide a calming and visually appealing environment,” adds Vertical Garden Systems.

Spending time in green spaces can have numerous benefits for our mental and physical health, and vertical gardens are an excellent tool for promoting well-being. By bringing the benefits of green spaces into our homes, offices, and public spaces,