Biophilia is a bit difficult to define, but in the simplest definition, it refers to our innate human instinct to connect with nature and other living beings.

Think about the last time you were at the beach, listening to the birds fly over and the waves crash. Think about a hike you’ve been on, making it to the top and feeling the warm sun and the cool breeze around you. Or even a time you took a stroll through your neighborhood, surrounded by trees and other living beings. Recall some of the sensations you felt: maybe relaxation, rejuvenation, tranquility, creativity, clarity, and more. This is biophilia.

Biophilia has been well studied regarding its impact on human wellbeing. The benefits include improved cognitive function and agility, creativity, and psychological and physiological well being. There are many elements to biophilia; for example, the presence of water has been shown to reduce stress and increase feelings of tranquility and lower heart rate. ‘Grounding,’ or going barefoot in the grass and soil, can bring a deep sense of calm.

Adults typically spend up to 90% of their time indoors. In a perfect world, nature would be part of our daily lives, but that is not always possible. However, we can bring biophilia into our homes and workspaces to benefit from the positive effects. Here are some tips on how you can bring nature inside.

●When working, try to sit near a window. Natural sunlight is crucial to regulating our mood and circadian rhythm.

● Get green by adding plants into your space. Low maintenance plants, such as snake plants, can live in direct sunlight or with minimal light while also helping to purify air by removing toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene.

●Bring in natural hues. Warmer and lighter colors are linked to positive moods, like joy and relaxation.

●Grab some hinoki oil! Hinoki oil, aka Japanese Cypress, is an essential oil known to mimic the scents of the forest, promoting physiological relaxation!

●Add in ‘material connections’: perhaps sit at a natural wooden table or decorate with a floor mat made from the Jute plant.

Try incorporating some of these into your workspace and home for a more calming environment. And when you get the chance, get outside!