Groene zintuigen

by Kathy Willis, Annemie de Vries (Translator)

Wanneer je zintuigen in aanraking komen met de natuur, is dat goed voor je lichaam en geest. Een vaas met rozen op je bureau maakt een meetbaar verschil voor je welzijn. Bepaalde geuren kunnen je immuunsysteem versterken. Een wandeling door het bos maakt je veerkrachtiger. Het blijkt dus dat het er echt toe doet naar wat voor soort landschap je kijkt, wat je ruikt, hoort en voelt.
In de afgelopen tien jaar is daar een explosie aan bewijs voor gevon- den. Vooraanstaand hoogleraar biodiversiteit Kathy Willis neemt de lezer mee op een fascinerende wereldreis langs alle experimenten die laten zien wat de natuur met een mens doet. Onderzoek toont keer op keer aan dat er een causaal verband bestaat tussen planten in ons leven, zowel binnen als buiten, en een betere fysieke en mentale gezondheid.
Niet alleen plantenwetenschappers en biologen voeren dit soort onderzoek uit, ook artsen, psychiaters, stadsplanners en gezondheids- autoriteiten van de overheid. Hun bevindingen zijn voor hoe we ons dagelijks leven en wonen inrichten, maar ook onze straten en werkplekken. Groene zintuigen legt uit hoe we onze huizen, onze tijd buitenshuis en de wereld om ons heen zo kunnen organiseren dat we de gezondheidsvoordelen van de natuur kunnen ervaren.

Genres: Nonfiction, Nature, Health, Science, Audiobook, Psychology, Biology

391 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 29, 2024

About the author

Kathy Willis is the director of science at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew, England. She is also a professor of biodiversity in the zoology department at the University of Oxford and an adjunct biology professor at the University of Bergen. She has authored or co-authored more than one hundred scientific publications, including the landmark book The Evolution of Plants. This is her first book for younger readers.

Reviews

[Amy Watson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This feels like an important book that should shape policy and the way we live. As such it’s a wee bit dry, but as an amalgamation of all the studies about humans’ interactions with nature it was always going to be a bit dry, and the author has a personable tone that offsets this a bit. I found a lot of these studies fascinating and also vindicating of my life as a gardener. The message seems to be live amongst green things, have plants in your house, smell plants, touch plants, get soil under your fingernails, don’t use chemical fertilisers and look at trees, preferably trees with a 1.3 fractal rating!

[Taylor Bricker · Rating 2 out of 5]

Recreational Readers: Proceed with Caution

It’s been a while since I’ve felt like I’m trudging through mud while reading a book, but this one did me in. Granted, the author is a skilled researcher and scientist, and this book will testify to that. However, there were many parts where I felt like I was reading a research paper in a scholarly journal. If she had taken a hatchet to several paragraphs of needless detail, I would’ve gladly conceded another star. If she had adjusted her style, I would’ve conceded two. I did learn a few fascinating facts, and the author did achieve her aim. If she had done it in a less dense, formulaic, more natural style, I wouldn’t have felt any need to caution prospective readers. That being said, if you enjoy extra details about plant biology and plants in historical context (and other things besides), or if you’re using it as a starting point for academic research, then go for it. Those looking for a lighter, more casual read should be prepared either to skip some paragraphs or skip the book altogether.

[KDub · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, what a fascinating book! 


Good Nature discusses various studies on how nature can improve our lives. These results are in unexpected ways: apparently sometimes just the sight or smell of certain plants can make you calmer, drive slower, concentrate better, etc. 


I'd consider this very important reading, especially these days when it's so easy to get sucked into screens and not pay attention to your surroundings. I think I want to buy a physical copy so I can highlight it! 


Thank you NetGalley for the ALC.

[Marika_reads · Rating 2 out of 5]

to powinien być artykuł naukowy (albo lekcja biologii), a nie ponad 300 stron książki

[Beth (biblio.beth) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Really interesting! The subject matter and findings of the studies won't be too surprising to those who love and advocate for natural and green spaces, but still well worth a read if this is something that interests you.

[Caitlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading the science behind why we should enjoy nature. The majority of the studies mentioned had really small sample sizes, but I imagine the money backing this kind of study would be sparce

[KJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

The evidence is in and it’s good.

[Jujupe · Rating 2 out of 5]

Dnf

[Mary Nolan-Fesmire · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting. A lot of scientific information.

[Don · Rating 5 out of 5]

This excellent book is unusual in several ways. Firstly, I think that anyone who reads it (and many people should) will discover ways in which they may benefit, if they take heed of the information and advice that is offered. Secondly, as a ‘how-to’ book, it is simple, straightforward, achievable – and (seemingly) entirely science-based: this author knows what she is writing about, or has consulted folk who do. Thirdly, as a very well-researched science book, that covers its topics thoroughly, it is remarkably readable.

Many people feel that being close to nature in some way — walking in woodland, listening to birdsong, touching wood, smelling aromatic natural compounds, cultivating houseplants, and so on — is a ‘good thing’ for our health and well-being. Kathy Willis has dug out evidence, from scientific investigations of such things from many parts of the world, that demonstrate ways in which this is true and, moreover, why it is so. She takes this evidence (with due caution where appropriate) and suggests ways to improve one’s life, health and, perhaps, longevity, all the while writing in a very accessible style. The House of Lords could do with more like her!

[Rosie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent book explaining the science behind what we might intuitively know to be true, that being in and around nature, or even having a few plants at home is good for us.

[☆ Iga ☆ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ciekawa do posłuchania, ale nic więcej.

[Hania Andrysiak · Rating 5 out of 5]

Myslalam, ze to poradnik, a okazała sie byc świetną książką popularno-naukową. Totalnie każdy powinien to przeczytać

[Leslie · Rating 2 out of 5]

All you need to know is on the front cover: "Why seeing, smelling,hearing, and touching plants is good for our health.” While important, this statement isn’t a terribly profound thesis. The pages that follow are a rattling off of studies that serve as supporting details to support the thesis. If this makes the book sound like an extended college research paper, then my review has captured my impression. If reading college research papers is your thing, then you mught enjoy. As for me, I'd rather be in my garden.

[Nicole · Rating 3 out of 5]

Insightful, with lots of practical, life-improving tips. (I will be doubling down on my aromatherapy regimen, and I’ve started instituting a daily mental health walk outside in an area with nice trees.) But, my, it is all so dryly rendered. This book has no personality whatsoever, so you’ve gotta be really committed to getting the information.

[Nina · Rating 4 out of 5]

I unexpectedly liked this book. I started reading and didn’t think I’d finish it. The author was British and was talking about gardens she overseas from her work in England. Well, I know nothing about the English and their obsessions with manicured gardens. The author is also a biologist and would use scientific names to talk about plants and flowers. Yawn. So I figured I would abandon this.

However, as a scientist, she cites studies about nature and their conclusions. For her first study, she states that we as a people prefer savanna-type landscapes. So big open spaces with some bushes and trees. And the author says the study surveyed different cultures and socio-economic groups and all found that we like savanna-type landscapes. The study concludes that it’s in our genes, our ancestors had to depend on these landscapes for their survival and we all tend to prefer them.

She also paired this with another study that says we don’t like it when trees are too close to each other or too dense. It makes us uncovertable about what could be hiding there. I have felt this myself in an area of thick woods.

So while her writing was a bit scientific, I appreciated when she talked about what other scientific studies have concluded.

A study recommends 15 minutes a day in nature can lower cortisol and the microbes in woods can help your gut and brain health. So much so that some Japanese doctors prescribe this green therapy to their patients.

I highlighted the heck out of this book. But as I was writing my review, the ebook got returned to the library. Rude! So I have much more to say about this book! I borrowed the book again and I hope my notes are still there when I get my hold.

[Lauren Amberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! It is so interesting to see the benefits of being around nature. I always knew there were some mental benefits (reduce in anxiety, happier mood) but I never would have guessed that there are physical benefits! It is so cool to learn that being around nature can help with cancer prevention. This book reminded me that God gave us everything we need here and the key to health is going back to the garden, sticking to what He gave us.

[Richard Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book in not only the writing but the subject matters too. If you like being outdoors and love nature then this is the book for you. Nature is so good for you in so many ways but I am not sure I am yet at the tree hugging stage!

[Dorota Smółkowska · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kathy Willis w swojej książce "Dobro natury" zabiera nas w fascynującą podróż przez świat nauki, odkrywając, w jaki sposób przyroda wpływa na nasze zdrowie psychiczne i fizyczne. Autorka, będąca doświadczoną botaniką, przedstawia nam przekonujące dowody na to, że kontakt z naturą jest nie tylko przyjemnością, ale również niezbędnym elementem naszego dobrostanu.
#dobronatury to nie tylko popularnonaukowa rozprawa, ale również osobista refleksja. Willis dzieli się z czytelnikiem własnymi doświadczeniami, opowiadając o tym, jak odkryła lecznicze właściwości natury. Jej pasja do roślin i przyrody jest zaraźliwa i sprawia, że czytelnik z niecierpliwością przewraca kolejne strony. Ja czytając czułam zapach sosnowego lasu, kolorowych kwiatów, zapachu morza.
Jednym z największych atutów książki jest jej interdyscyplinarny charakter. Autorka łączy wiedzę z różnych dziedzin, takich jak biologia, psychologia czy medycyna, tworząc spójny obraz wpływu przyrody na człowieka. Dowiadujemy się, jak kontakt z zielonymi przestrzeniami wpływa na nasz układ nerwowy, obniża poziom stresu i poprawia jakość snu. Willis przedstawia również badania naukowe, które potwierdzają, że przebywanie w naturze może przyspieszyć proces zdrowienia po chorobie i zwiększyć naszą odporność na infekcje. Przyroda poprawia też funkcjonowanie naszego mózgu i udowodniono, że im więcej zieleni wokół nas, tym lepsza nasza pamięć operacyjna.
"Dobro natury" to nie tylko diagnoza problemu, ale również propozycja rozwiązań. Autorka przekonuje, że każdy z nas może przyczynić się do poprawy swojego zdrowia i środowiska naturalnego. Willis podsuwa wiele praktycznych wskazówek, jak wprowadzić więcej natury do naszego życia, nawet jeśli mieszkamy w mieście. Zachęca nas do spędzania czasu na świeżym powietrzu, uprawiania roślin, a także do dbania o zielone przestrzenie w naszych okolicach.
To lektura, która powinna zainteresować każdego, kto chce żyć zdrowiej i szczęśliwiej. To również ważna pozycja dla wszystkich tych, którzy troszczą się o przyszłość naszej planety. Willis przekonuje nas, że ochrona przyrody to nie tylko obowiązek, ale również inwestycja w nasze własne zdrowie i dobrostan.

[Las Bookowy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Czy wiedzieliście, że cyprysik tępołuskowy wspomaga działanie komórek układu odpornościowego, które zwalczają raka? Albo że dotykanie drewna działa uspokajająco? A może że zapach róży może pomóc w spokojnej i bezpiecznej jeździe samochodem? Dobro natury pokazuje nam, jak przyroda wpływa na nasze zdrowie. Jeśli zaprosimy ją do naszych domów, miejsc pracy, szkół i miast, stworzymy lepsze, szczęśliwsze i zdrowsze środowisko życia dla wszystkich.

Jak pewnie zauważyliście, przeglądając mój profil, kocham naturę. Uwielbiam spędzać czas na łonie przyrody, a spacery po parkach i nad jeziorami są stałym elementem mojego życia. Dlatego gdy tylko usłyszałam o tej książce, wiedziałam, że będzie to idealna lektura dla mnie.

Muszę przyznać, że wiele faktów poruszonych w książce było mi już znanych. Część z nich świadomie stosowałam w swoim życiu. Myślę, że większość z Was może mieć podobne odczucia, bo niektóre zachowania związane z korzystaniem z natury wykonujemy niemal automatycznie. Mimo to wyniosłam z tej książki mnóstwo nowych wskazówek, które zamierzam wcielić w życie.

Książka jest napisana w przystępny sposób, dzięki czemu będzie odpowiednia dla każdego czytelnika. W Polsce od najmłodszych lat uczymy się, jak ważna jest przyroda, jak należy o nią dbać i z nią współistnieć. Uważam, że to niezwykle istotne, zwłaszcza po przeczytaniu tej pozycji. Natura zapewnia nam wiele korzyści zdrowotnych, szczególnie w kontekście psychicznym. Wystarczy na przykład wybrać się na spacer wśród zieleni, by poczuć się mniej zestresowanym.

Podczas spaceru możemy nie tylko podziwiać piękno przyrody, ale także wsłuchać się w śpiew ptaków, który działa kojąco na nasz umysł. Nawet zwykłe dotknięcie drewna może mieć pozytywny wpływ na nasze samopoczucie. To tylko kilka przykładów, a w tej książce znajdziecie znacznie więcej praktycznej wiedzy, która może poprawić jakość Waszego życia.

Szczególnie spodobały mi się w książce opisy badań prowadzonych na grupach ludzi, które potwierdzają przedstawione tezy. Dzięki temu lektura nie jest jedynie zbiorem teoretycznych twierdzeń – to wiedza poparta naukowymi dowodami.

Uwielbiam otaczać się naturą i czerpać z niej energię. Spacery to dla mnie nie tylko forma relaksu, ale i sposób na poprawę samopoczucia. Jeśli temat natury i jej wpływu na nasze zdrowie Was interesuje, gorąco polecam tę książkę. Jeszcze dziś możecie zrobić coś dobrego dla siebie – wystarczy sięgnąć po tę inspirującą lekturę!

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have what I think is a healthy skepticism of boutique science--niche pilot studies that sound intuitively right, but lack rigorous research. Most of the research of the health benefits of nature suffer from this problem: after all, there is no big pharmaceutical Lorax to fund research on trees.

Willis, to her credit, mentions the small size and non-replication of these studies, though she does buy-in rather whole hog to the research. Do I think there's a significant creativity difference between looking at yellow flowers or white flowers? I don't. These feel more like publication bias in action, but I do think there's not much harm in surrounding yourself in flowers, and probably a lot of good. That's where Willis ends up--the side effects aren't bad, so might as well get your nature on.

Specifically, she recommends the benefits of scents (mint for focus, lavender for sleep, hinoki all around), possibly because the essential oil folk do fund research, most heartily, followed by increased interaction with the environmental microbiome (e.g. gardening without gloves or having green walls and other massive amounts of houseplants around) as the most significant, but under utilized sources of improvement. Seeing, hearing, touching, smelling and ingesting nature are important to all people, so building a wilderness preserve on the outskirts of town to justify paving a park doesn't do the trick. The conclusion isn't that we need to stop spending time indoors, but rather that we need to increase direct or simulated exposure to nature inside.

[Tricia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this book absolutely fascinating! Although much of what is describes feels a little like common sense, it's so interesting to read about the studies that back it up. Kathy Willis does not present her own research here, but instead, compiles a whole body of other research from a variety of sources across the world. Through this research, she demonstrates the clear value of nature in our lives: from brightly colored flowers, to scents, to outdoor green spaces, to patterns of wood. However, she does it in what feels like a very scientifically responsible way. In addition to sharing the research studies in easy to understand English, she also points out places where more research is needed and cautions readers about taking more from the studies than they actually support. It's really well done and really accessible to someone without a scientific background. I would highly recommend this to anyone interested in how interacting with nature can have an impact on their life.

[Mathieu · Rating 2 out of 5]

I have mixed feelings about how to review this book. It presents clear arguments for the various ways nature is good for human health, going through each of the senses with the studies and data to support these benefits. The writing is a friendly tone, an easy-going story telling like a friend talking to you. The data and studies are high-end with good citations, yet explained in simple terms. So if I wanted a solid, technical read, there is too much fluff in this book. If I want the quick, easy information, there is too much technical explanation.

Still, this book is a great compilation of stories and information about why and how humans benefit from exposure to plants and nature. If you find hard science too difficult to understand, or the concept of "happiness" too difficult to apply to arguments for protecting nature, this book may be the one for you.

[ali ♥ · Rating 4 out of 5]

scientific researcher and professor of biodiversity at the university of oxford examines the many ways interacting with nature improves our health & wellbeing

likes:
• you can certainly tell from the text that the author is both an extremely skilled researcher and scientist. i listened on audiobook and it was also an appropriate choice for her to narrate instead of a voice actor – her passion for this subject is SO obvious.

• things that stood out: impact on cortisol when walking in natural vs. urban environments, stress recovery in a room with nature portraits, psychological impact of adding trees to urban streets and sidewalks, immune-boosting effects of scent

dislikes:
• would have loved more suggestions for transforming this research into implementable policies, especially given katherine's government background!

[Diane Fordham · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fascinating must-read for anybody with the slightest interest in the impact of nature on the human body and the human mind. It is a review of many, many research projects from all around the world and effectively pulls the evidence of those together to make the information easily accessible to anyone who is interested. The book contains a lot of information, and a lot of it is scientific, so it can be a bit heavy going in places. But it is fascinating and well worth the effort. My only criticism was that I spent the whole book looking forward to the final chapter that would summarise and bring all of the information together in a nice, chatty, easily digestible format. But the chapter wasn't there. I think it would be a very helpful addition.

[Amanda Woodlee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cannot recommend enough. As someone who loves to garden and whose work involves research-based horticulture education, this book was PERFECT. I used a ton of stickies to flag important bits I wanted to share or thought could be applicable to my work/life. I will be telling all my volunteers they should read it.

I love that it’s all based on actual science but is also written in a way that’s not only easier to read than any scientific paper I’ve come across, but is also enjoyable. And the little blips of humor and humanity were unexpected and delightful.

[Joey Deptula · Rating 3 out of 5]

While the book achieves its aim in making the reader think bout how nature and plants interact with their life and has a nice call to action in changing habits and our own environments, the author simply synthesizes research performed by others and relies on a smattering of preliminary results. The book at times just seems to go from study to study focusing on the studies design without providing practical implications for the audience, especially in the early chapters

[Karolina · Rating 3 out of 5]

The author portrays the science of being outside as an infancy of its field. This reads like a literature review of a dissertation not as a book on how to get the best out of being outside. I think maybe I wasn't the audience for this book(the author mentions city officials and urban landscape managers quite a lot) or perhaps it was a miss with the targeted audience as a popular book. Left me wanting more.

[Rudi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Soms was het misschien wat te herhalend maar de schrijfster zorgt voor een blij gevoel, wat dan mag herhaald worden , de goede invloed van de natuur ( planten ) als belevingswereld/ achtergrond , ook leuk om te lezen dat er best veel onderzoek kan gebeuren zonder dat er pijn of leed aan te pas komt ,
4 sterren een boek om blij van te worden , … of blijer bij sombere dagen ,

[Candice · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lots of interesting research has been conducted and summarized here that support a decision to spend more time in nature. Unfortunately, there was a missed opportunity in discussing native plants vs. invasive plants. Many well-meaning people don’t realize how a few species can wreak havoc on their native ecosystem.