E.O. Wilson (1929–2021) was a renowned American biologist and naturalist, often referred to as the "father of sociobiology" and "father of biodiversity." 

One of Wilson's most influential ideas is the biophilia hypothesis, which he introduced in his 1984 book, Biophilia. The hypothesis suggests that humans have an innate affinity for the natural world, a deep-seated connection rooted in our evolutionary history. According to Wilson, this bond with nature has shaped human development, culture, and well-being. The hypothesis suggests that interactions with natural environments and patterns, such as the fractals found in trees or rivers are essential to human health, fostering a sense of belonging, reducing stress, and enhancing creativity, while the loss of natural connections can negatively impact our mental and physical health.

Wilson’s biophilia concept underscores the importance of preserving biodiversity, not only for ecological balance but also for nurturing humanity's psychological and spiritual health. His work continues to influence conservation, environmental ethics, and design principles that incorporate nature into urban and personal spaces.

This hypothesis has been well supported by a plethora of peer reviewed research since.

Wilson E. O. (1984). Biophilia. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press.

Fractals are natural, self-repeating patterns that can be found in everything from trees and clouds to coastlines and rivers. These patterns, when represented in nature photography, can have a profound effect on the human mind, promoting relaxation and reducing stress. The brain is naturally attuned to recognize and process these patterns, which is why viewing fractal-like structures in images of nature can trigger a sense of calm and well-being. Fractals and their affects on our visual processing centers of our brains is a possible mechanism for the beneficial effects of nature imagery. 

For further reading on the benefits of fractals and nature visuals:

1. Fractal Geometry and Human Perception
2. Fractals and their Effects on the Human Brain

"Daily exposure to virtual nature reduces symptoms of anxiety in college students" (2023) – Experimental Study

This study is one of the first studies looking at the longitudinal effects of viewing virtual nature and its impact on symptoms of anxiety and depression. College students were exposed to virtual nature images daily for several weeks. They found that, “among our sample of 40 college students, anxious apprehension (worry) decreased with virtual nature exposure relative to no exposure. These changes remained significant after adjusting for gender, semester, and sleep and physical activity changes. Beneficial changes in anxious arousal (panic) were also observed and approached significance in adjusted models. No significant effects for depressive symptoms or rumination were observed.”

For detailed insights, visit the full study.

"The Effect of Brief Exposure to Virtual Nature on Mental Wellbeing in Adolescents" (2023) – Experimental Study

This study examined how short virtual nature experiences influence adolescents' mental health. Participants who watched a 6-minute virtual woodland video reported significant improvements in stress reduction, relaxation, mood, attention, and connection to nature compared to those who viewed an urban setting video. These findings suggest that brief virtual nature interventions, such as nature photography, can effectively enhance mental well-being in adolescents.

Read the full study here.

"Viewing Nature Scenes Positively Affects Recovery of Autonomic Function Following Acute-Mental Stress" (2013) – Experimental Study

This study investigated the physiological effects of viewing nature versus urban scenes following acute mental stress. It found that participants who viewed nature scenes experienced significantly faster recovery in autonomic function, measured by heart rate variability. These findings underscore the calming and restorative effects of nature imagery, making photography of natural environments a valuable tool for reducing stress and promoting relaxation.

Read the full study here.

"Biophilia: Does Visual Contact with Nature Impact Health and Well-Being?" (2009) – Systematic Review

This review analyzed multiple studies to assess the health benefits of visual exposure to natural elements, including nature photography. It highlighted reduced stress, improved mental well-being, and enhanced cognitive restoration as common outcomes. The review emphasizes that nature imagery offers a therapeutic and accessible means to integrate the benefits of biophilia into daily life.

Read the full study here.

The Science of Awe: Exploring the Impact of Nature and Art on the Human Condition

Awe, a profound and multifaceted emotion, arises from the cognitive appraisal of something vast, that is either in size or perceived grandeur, that challenges our understanding of the world, prompting a need for mental adjustment (1). This framework, involving perceived immensity and the necessity for cognitive restructuring, has been a consistent finding in the scientific study of awe over the past two decades (1). The repeated emphasis on these two components across various research groups and publication years highlights their foundational role in defining and understanding this emotion. The seminal work of Keltner and Haidt in 2003 appears to have significantly shaped this conceptualization, with numerous subsequent studies referencing and building upon their initial proposal (1, 29).

Awe can be triggered by a diverse array of stimuli, spanning natural wonders, artistic expressions, musical performances, profound spiritual encounters, and even witnessing acts of exceptional courage and kindness (1). In this research review, we will  focus on the powerful influence of natural wonders and artwork, including Fine Art Photography, on our biochemical, mental health, and brain responses.

The Biochemical Symphony of Awe

Encountering the immensity of nature or the brilliance of art triggers a cascade of biochemical shifts within us. Awe, particularly when positive, is often associated with an increase in vagal tone, indicating a state of relaxation (3, 4). Witnessing acts of beauty or grandeur can also lead to the release of oxytocin, a hormone linked to social connection (3). Furthermore, awe-inspiring experiences, whether in a serene forest or before a captivating painting, can modulate neurotransmitter levels in the brain, including dopamine, which is involved in reward and pleasure (5, 6). Notably, awe stands out among positive emotions for its association with lower levels of the inflammatory biomarker interleukin-6 (IL-6), suggesting a link between experiencing awe and reduced inflammation in the body (7, 8, 9, 10, 11).

The Awe-Struck Brain: Nature, Art, and Neural Activity

Neuroscientific investigations reveal distinct brain activity patterns when we experience awe in response to nature or art. Studies have shown a reduction in activity within the default-mode network (DMN), the brain network active during self-reflection, suggesting that awe shifts our focus away from ourselves and towards the external stimulus (12). This quieting of the "self" allows for greater engagement with the awe-eliciting experience.

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies have identified the involvement of brain regions such as the insula, amygdala, and prefrontal cortex during awe (5). These areas are crucial for emotional processing, detecting salient stimuli, and higher-order cognitive functions, highlighting the complex interplay of emotion and cognition in the awe response. Interestingly, positive awe, often elicited by nature and art, has been linked to increased gray matter volume in the precuneus, a region associated with self-reflection and conscious awareness (13, 14, 15). This suggests a deeper engagement and integration of the awe experience within our sense of self.

Awe and Mental Well-being: Finding Solace and Connection in Beauty

The awe evoked by natural wonders and artwork has profound positive effects on our mental well-being. Experiencing awe, even in everyday encounters with beauty like artwork hanging in your own home, is associated with lower stress levels and increased life satisfaction (16, 17, 18). The ability of awe to diminish self-focus and promote a sense of being part of something larger contributes to this stress reduction (19, 20).

"Awe walks," intentionally seeking out awe in natural environments, have been shown to enhance positive emotions like compassion and gratitude, particularly in older adults (21, 22, 23, 24). This practice fosters a sense of connection with the natural (and supernatural) world and reduces daily distress. Furthermore, the "small self" phenomenon, a diminished sense of self often experienced during awe, can buffer against negative emotions arising from self-threat, promoting a more balanced perspective (19, 20).

Awe also fosters prosocial behavior and social connectedness (1, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29). By shifting our focus outward, awe makes us feel more connected to others and the world around us, motivating us to be more generous and helpful (29). This sense of interconnectedness, often felt when gazing at a breathtaking vista or a moving work of art, contributes significantly to our overall well-being.

Conclusion: The Enduring Power of Awe in Nature and Art

The awe elicited by natural wonders, and artwork that captures it, is a powerful emotion with far-reaching benefits for our biochemistry, brain function, and mental health. As humans, we have been made to have a profound reaction to experiencing the Divine through our Creator’s Works. By engaging our senses and challenging our understanding, these experiences offer a pathway to stress reduction, mood enhancement, increased social connection, and heightened Spirituality. Cultivating opportunities to experience awe in nature and through art can enrich our lives and contribute to a more balanced and fulfilling existence.

References

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