Beauty, the Brain, and Container Gardening
CONTAINED
BRILLIANCE
I learned a new word last week, neuroaesthetics, thanks to Melissa Gerstle at the Digging In Association’s Winter Conference. I’ve always known that a well-tended garden or even just a few plants, can brighten my day. I understand the science behind Biophilia, which explains the proven mental and physical benefits of gardening. But it wasn’t until last week that I discovered neuroasthetics, the way science and beauty combine to play a role in uplifting my mood, outlook and even helps to prevent burn-out in my profession of container gardening.
Neuroaesthetic is an exciting and rapidly growing field of research that blends psychology, aesthetics, and biology helping us to understand how beauty has such a profound effect on our well-being.
What is Neuroaesthetics?
So, what exactly is neuroaesthetics? Simply put, it's the study of how beauty affects our brains. It turns out that humans are naturally drawn to beautiful things - whether it’s people, art, music or gardens - and the impact it has on us goes far beyond a fleeting mood boost. Neuroaesthetics suggests that our connection to beauty has deep evolutionary roots. It's hard wired into us. From our earliest days, we've been in tune with the beauty of nature, and this connection is more important for our health, learning, and overall well-being than we might realize.
The Aha Moment! Container Gardening and Neuroaesthetics
Think back to a time before the pressure of deadlines, endless smartphone notifications, and pages of to-do lists and tasks. Remember when you had the space and time to explore the world through your senses? Maybe you were a child, picking clover, stopping to smell the roses or simply lost in play. Even as adults, we still tap into these moments - whether through a favorite song, a breathtaking sunset, or the beauty of a well-designed garden.
As a container gardener, I’ve long been drawn to the beauty and joy that plants bring into my life. But learning about neuroasethetics helped me connect the dots. I don't just love container gardening for the creative process, planting, and designing. I love it because of the beauty itself! And maybe my client’s reactions aren’t just about the transformation of their spaces, but about how beauty makes them feel on a deeper level.
Neuroaesthetic research confirms that aesthetically pleasing environments, like well-designed gardens, actually triggers positive changes in our brain chemistry. They reduce stress, improve mood, and boost overall mental health.
Nurturing Beauty, Nurturing Yourself
Every step of container gardening; choosing the right containers, arranging plants, tending to their growth, is an exercise in crafting beauty. And when you spend time designing, planting and tending a container garden, you’re not just nurturing plants—you’re nurturing yourself.
Each moment spent selecting, planting and caring for your plants creates a beautiful composition that delights your brain and senses. The textures, colors, scents and even the rustle of carex blades in the wind come together to create a beautiful, harmonious, immersive experience. And this is where the magic happens. According to neuroaesthetics this engagement with beauty is precisely what we need to feel a positive shift in our mental state.
By creating a visually appealing container garden – whether it be a lush patio arrangement, single vibrant pot, or carefully curated window box, we’re following a deeply rooted human desire to connect with something beautiful.
Designing with Neuroaesthetics in Mind
As spring approaches, and you plan your container gardens, think about how you can incorporate neuroaesthetics into your designs. Consider how your planters and outdoor spaces can become calming beautiful retreats right outside your door.
Start by thinking about what feels “pretty” and the sensory experience you want to create. As yourself:
- What colors make me feel at ease or bring me joy?
- Are there particular scents that make you feel calm, happy or beautiful?
- What textures and shapes do I find most appealing?
For me, the fresh fragrance of citrus and the cheerful colors of zinnias always spark joy. Maybe you’re drawn to the soft greens of ferns or the gentle rustle of ornamental grasses. The key is to choose plants that are pleasing to the eye and create a sensory experience – one that invites you to linger and lifts your spirit every time you step outside.
Container gardening gives you the opportunity to design your own personal beauty oasis in a small manageable way, whether a balcony, patio or even a small windowsill.
Final Thoughts
When I first started container gardening, I knew it made me happy. I just didn't realize that this happiness was hard-wired into me being deep rooted in our biology. Thoughtfully designed container gardens aren’t just visual beauties, they offer a therapeutic, soul-nourishing experience.
So, as you plan your spring containers, think about how they can engage all your senses and create a calming, beautiful retreat right outside your door. You’re not just growing plants, you’re cultivating beauty, calm and well-being. It’s a powerful tool for improving your mental and emotional health.
Nature isn’t just something we admire from afar; it’s something we’re meant to connect with. And what better way to tap into that connection than by creating a container garden of your own?
Happy Gardening, and here's to a beautiful and mindful spring!
Additional Information:
