Biophilia : a love of nature

Did you know we now spend over 80% of our time indoors? 

That’s around 53 years of our lives! From school & work to downtime, the shift towards an indoor lifestyle has been accelerated by urbanisation, technological advances, and changes in our work habits. And whilst we might feel relief at not facing a daily commute, or navigating a busy high street, the negative effects of spending so much time inside can show up in all sorts of ways:

Not getting enough natural light
Natural light regulates our body's internal clock and hormone production. An interior design that does not expose us to natural light can disrupt our circadian rhythm, affecting sleep patterns and overall well-being. 

Limited exposure and lack of connection to the natural world Humans have an innate bond with nature. When we spend too much time indoors, this connection is weakened. We lose knowledge of both our local surroundings and the wider world. Our eco-literacy doesn't thrive. Spending hours inside means less exposure to natural sensory experiences which can lead to increased stress, poorer mental health and reduced productivity.

Sedentary lifestyle

Spending hours working at a desk or watching television involves prolonged sitting. A sedentary lifestyle can contribute to various health issues such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, and musculoskeletal problems.

Indoor air pollution

Indoor environments can produce pollutants from sources like building materials, cleaning products, and poor ventilation systems. Exposure to these chemicals can lead to respiratory problems, allergies, and other health issues.

Social isolation

All too familiar during the Covid-19 lockdowns, so much time indoors can limit social interactions and opportunities for face-to-face communication. This can lead to feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety.