Green Care: A Conceptual Framework - Frisk i naturen

physiological effect – an effect on the body not just in the mind – of every
thing people look at. But plants – like animals or humans – have an effect
differing from any non-living object. Physical resonance, the effect of
the observation of what plants do to rest and move, activates a human
neurobiological program which could help to perform a similar activity.
The concept of physical resonance may explain how the sensory effects
on the body tissue provide impulses to the muscle tone and to the organs.
Thus, plants can evoke a relaxing, soothing and restoring effect, spreading
throughout the body including the sympathetic nervous system.
There are manifold opportunities for experiencing these bodily sensations.
Natural habitats, landscape and farms provide a whole range of different
plants as well as trees. For the gardener, client, patient or restoration-seeker
there is ample opportunity to use different natural forms to experience
physical resonance in different parts of their body.
It is not clear whether all people experience such sensations or whether
they need to have special sensitivity. For example, can it be developed by
training? It may be that introverted people or people with a certain capacity
of introspection are more easily accessible to the idea of using their body
feelings as a resonance instrument for exploring plant qualities for their
human well being. Further research on this is needed.
References
Hartig, T., Mang, M. and Evans, G. W. (1991) ‘Restorative effects of natural environment experiences’.
Environment and Behavior, 23, 3–26.
Heimann, P. (1950) ‘On counter-transference’. International Journal of Psycho-Analysis, 31, 81-84.
Kaplan, S. (1995) ‘The restorative benefits of nature: toward an integrative framework’. Journal of
Environmental Psychology, 15, 169-182.
Kaplan, R. and Kaplan, S. (1989) The Experience of Nature: A Psychological Perspective. New York:
Cambridge University Press.
Rand, M. (2001) ‘Somatic resonance and countertransference’. AHP Perspective, April/May.
Totton, N. (ed.) (2005) New Dimensions in Body Psychotherapy. Mcgraw-Hill Publishing Company.
Ulrich, R. S. (1984) ‘View through a window may influence recovery from surgery’. Science, 224,
420-421.
Ulrich, R. S., Simons, R. F., Losito, B. D., Fiorito, E., Milse, M. A. & Zelson, M. (1991) ‘Stress
recovery during exposure to natural and urban environments’. Journal of Environmental Psychology,
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94 Green Care: A Conceptual Framework