Environments That Make the Brain Happy—Nature and Architecture

What to know

A Good Environment How do our physical surroundings affect the brain, body, and mind? Drawing on the latest research in neuroarchitecture, health design, and the connections between nature and people’s physical, mental, and social health, an associate professor of architecture and cognitive neuroscience Zakaria Djebbarafrom Aalborg University and associate professor of nature-based therapy and health promotion Dorthe Varning Poulsenfrom the University of Copenhagen, on how everything from ceiling height, sound, and light to green spaces, landscapes, and nature-based design can shape our behavior, mental health, and sense of well-being. Why does this affect us? And how can this knowledge be applied to the development of future construction, treatment options, and our own everyday choices—from the design of our homes and gardens to the way we use the city and nature? The conversation moderated by science journalist Line Friis Frederiksen. The event is part of Folkeuniversitetet's knowledge festival Hearts & Minds.