BIOPHILIA AND THE NEED FOR NATURE IN MODERN LIFE
Muhammad Fahad
Senior Architect | Interior Designer | Landscaping designing | Site Architect | Licensed professional with+8 year's of experience | primarily engaged in Design Development & its on-Site Implementation.
Biophilia, a term coined by E.O. Wilson, refers to our inherent human connection with and affinity for the natural world. Despite the ever-increasing urbanization of our lives, this connection remains paramount for our physical and mental health and overall well-being.
Our roots in biophilia trace back to the days of our species' evolution when we adapted to the forces of nature. For most of our existence, we evolved in response to the natural world, not the artificial constructs of modernity. Our bodies, minds, and senses developed in harmony with nature, not in opposition to it. The concept of biophilia stems from the understanding that our fundamental inclinations are hardwired into our biology as a result of this evolutionary history.
While some of these inclinations may seem vestigial in today's urban-centric world, a growing body of scientific research suggests that our connection to nature profoundly impacts various aspects of our lives. Studies show that contact with nature can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, accelerate healing, and even improve workplace morale and performance.
However, the benefits of this connection are not automatic; they require nurturing and development through repeated experiences. This is where the paradigm of modern design and development comes into play. Regrettably, the prevailing approach to the built environment often treats nature as an obstacle or an afterthought, leading to a disconnect between people and the natural world.
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Today, most of us spend 90% of our time in the indoor built environment, which has become our new "natural habitat." However, this habitat is often devoid of meaningful contact with nature. The lack of natural light, ventilation, vegetation, and other vital elements leaves our senses deprived, akin to the barren cages of antiquated zoos.
To address this issue, we must recognize the enduring importance of our connection with nature and prioritize biophilic design principles in our built environment. By doing so, we can bridge the growing chasm between our urban lives and the natural world, enhancing our physical and mental well-being, as well as our overall quality of life. The challenge is clear: embrace biophilia, reintegrate nature into our daily existence, and let our built environments nourish our connection to the world that birthed us.
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