Discussing more theories..

 Restorative Garden Design

This theory deals with the design of a garden and its importance on the healing process. Throughout history there is evidence to show that gardens have been used as spaces to heal and promote wellness.

Health is defined as “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity”

This theory was developed by Rodger Ulrich. 

The Theory of Restorative Garden Design takes into consideration that specific gardens should be designed for different situations. This theory is also linked to Wilsons theory of Biophilia, which describes that there is a subconscious link and bond between humans and other living species 

The Restorative Garden Design theory is based on research done into the behavioral sciences of human beings, focusing on health care related fields are important stress managing environments not only needed by the patients but by the staff and family members. 

Gardens in health care situations offer; social support, sense of control, space for physical movement and exercise and access to nature and other positive distractions.

Taking into consideration Dr. Bill Hettler’s Dimensions of Wellness theory, there are 6 aspects that affect wellness of a human, namely, physical, social, environmental, emotional, spiritual and intellectual, as seen in the figure below. All aspects of healing should be dealt with in a design that deals with healing for humans.

This theory is based on the link between humans and other living species such as animals and plants, as the world becomes more and more built up, there is a struggle to try and preserve as well as incorporate nature into our everyday lives. Small changes such as plants and fresh air make such a difference to our immediate environment. 

Taking my own advice, I moved my desk to look out my window, and bought some plants to brighten up my otherwise very industrial styled flat. This has had a positive influence on the feeling I get when working at my desk, that could be the change or the view and plants.. or maybe a combination of both!