Natural outdoor environments present numerous learning opportunities. Unstructured play outdoors promotes cognitive development while stimulating imagination and supporting exploration and creativity.
Keep nature within reach. Research has demonstrated the advantages of connecting with nature through windows – even just watching it from outside – on people’s mental health and wellbeing.
Water features
Water features like fountains, ponds, or waterfalls instantly add beauty and serenity to any landscape. Not only do water features add visual appeal; their soothing sounds help drown out background noises for a peaceful ambiance and provide relief from unwanted background noises. Furthermore, these water features produce negative ions that improve air quality allowing everyone in your family to breathe easier.
These beautiful outdoor landscape features provide the ideal space to unwind after an exhausting day and entertain guests at backyard parties, while the gentle sound of running water helps ensure conversations flow more easily when people meet each other for the first time.
Water features not only enhance your garden landscape, they also attract wildlife to it. Plants near water features provide shelter, food and nesting sites for local birds, frogs and other creatures; while their movement brings nutrients essential for creating vibrant ecosystems.
Greenery
Add natural elements to outdoor spaces – be it green roofs, native plantings, or green walls – to promote well-being both physically and mentally. Such spaces help reduce stress, enhance cognitive function, and boost creativity – as well as help promote physical health benefits like reduced anxiety.
Green spaces help reduce ambient temperatures, helping mitigate the urban heat island effect that is harmful to human health. Furthermore, plants and trees serve as natural filters against air pollutants and noise pollution.
Studies have demonstrated the beneficial effects of spending time in green spaces on our immune systems, helping increase resistance against illness. This may be attributed to phytoncides emitted from plants; exposure to nature has been linked with decreased symptoms for people suffering chronic pain conditions.
Natural sounds
Gentle background sounds of water dripping, leaves rustling or the birds chirping can provide a soothing ambiance and alleviate anxiety and stress levels, masking any distracting noises that might interfere with concentration or focus. These soothing sounds offer the perfect way to find peace and serenity.
Studies of natural sounds’ soothing effects have been well documented through scientific investigations utilizing brain scans, heart-rate monitors, and behavioral experiments. Their use has been linked with decreased self-reported feelings of fatigue and an increase in recovery levels.
Many popular online platforms feature nature-inspired soundtracks that can be enjoyed at any time to experience its soothing effects and create an ambiance conducive to productivity and relaxation. Some businesses even implement them into their workspaces to promote greater employee productivity while creating a more relaxed working environment.
Fire pits
Fire pits provide an ideal spot for people to gather together, as they add warmth, and light, and pair beautifully with water features.
Fire pits not only serve as an excellent gathering spot but can also add a romantic atmosphere to any outdoor environment. Their mesmerizing flames and soft glow provide the ideal setting for introspection and relaxation; helping guests to unwind.
Modern gas fire pits come in all sorts of materials and features, from cooking grates to built-in log storage. Fuel options may include propane, wood or non-toxic ethanol such as EcoSmart’s non-toxic eNRG fuel system. When selecting one for your space, take into account its style and function as well as local fire regulations and safety considerations before purchasing one; durability should also be factored in.
