Our Nature Based intervention study

Research & Evidence

Nature-based interventions: a systematic review
Nature-Based Interventions and Mind-Body Interventions
Quantifying the relationship between gardening and health and well-being
Nature-Based Interventions for Autistic Children
Wilderness adventure therapy effects on the mental health of youth
Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing) and Nature Therapy
The effects of forest bathing on psychological well-being:

Research & Resources

The Science of Nature-Based Interventions

At Open Hands Horticulture, our "Gardens with a Purpose" are built upon a foundation of international peer-reviewed research. We believe in transparency and evidence-led design. Below are the key studies from Europe and Asia that inform our practice and demonstrate the profound impact of therapeutic horticulture on human health.

Key Clinical Studies

1. Nature-Based Interventions (NBI) for Health and Wellbeing

  • The Findings: Research indicates that structured Nature-Based Interventions are highly effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.

  • The Application: We use these frameworks to ensure our garden designs act as a "soft place to land" for mental health recovery and regulation.

2. Horticultural Therapy and Life Satisfaction

  • The Findings: Longitudinal studies show that engaging in therapeutic horticulture produces a rise in life satisfaction and happiness greater than many other major positive life events.

  • The Application: This drives our "Garden Guidance Classes," focusing on long-term joy and fulfillment for our clients.

3. Impact on Neuro-developmental and Sensory Functioning

  • The Findings: For children and adults with sensory needs, NBI supports significant improvements in social, behavioral, and motor functioning.

  • The Application: This is the core of our work for the disability community and our award-winning 'Tea Gardens' approach.

4. The Preventative Power of Nature Therapy (CNT)

  • The Findings: The Concept of Nature Therapy (CNT) highlights that exposure to natural stimuli acts as preventative medicine, lowering cortisol levels and improving immune function.

  • The Application: We design spaces that encourage daily "micro-doses" of nature to maintain physiological health.

5. Technological Stress and Modern Disconnection

  • The Findings: In our "technostress" era, physiological relaxation is triggered almost immediately upon viewing or entering a high-quality natural environment.

  • The Application: We prioritize "screen-free" sensory zones in our designs to help reset the nervous system.

6. Biophilia and the Evolutionary Connection

  • The Findings: Humans have an innate biological need to connect with nature; landscapes that honor this "Biophilia" lead to better cognitive performance and emotional stability.

  • The Application: We select plants and materials that trigger this ancient, calming recognition in the human brain.

7. Global Success of Forest and Blue-Space Therapy

  • The Findings: Research from Europe and Asia proves that specific natural elements (like water and woodland textures) are essential for deep psychological restoration.

  • The Application: We integrate these specific "restorative elements" into urban Canberra backyards.

Recommended Reading

  • The Biophilia Hypothesis – Edward O. Wilson

  • Last Child in the Woods – Richard Louv

  • The Well-Gardened Mind – Sue Stuart-Smith