International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR) ISSN (Online): 2319-7064 Index Copernicus Value (2016): 79.57 | Impact Factor (2017): 7.296 Volume 7 Issue 5, May 2018 www.ijsr.net Licensed Under Creative Commons Attribution CC BY Horticultural Therapy Activities Reduce Stress Levels: Lessons from Activities Conducted For Adults in Bangalore V. Karthikeyan 1 , Radha Eswar 2 1 Horticultural Therapist, ArtyPlantz Nature Revitalization Pvt Ltd, Bangalore, India 2 Co-Founder, ArtyPlantz Nature Revitalization Pvt Ltd, Bangalore, India Running Head: Horticultural Therapy Activities Reduce Stress Levels Abstract: Horticultural therapy is an emerging practice in India which is conducted in small pockets. In this paper we focus on determining the importance of horticultural therapy activities in stress reduction, improved productivity and increased self-confidence. The session studied for this purpose was conducted with a group of corporate employees between the ages 22 to 50 (n = 21; male = 11, female = 10). We used the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS) to measure levels of depression and stress and another scale for measuring stress at work place. Participants with high stress and anxiety felt happier after gardening and other plant-related activities. All activities aided in reducing stress and tension, and in boosting their self-esteem and self-confidence in the work place. This in turn, encouraged better interaction among family members and friends post work. Participant’s creativity and focus improved leading them to solve complex problems. From our study it is clear, that human beings are happier at work and home when they connect to Nature. Senses get sharpened when they are in a plant-rich area. In this study we present that horticultural therapy activities could significantly impact people who are suffering from stress, tension, depression and anxiety. Keywords: horticultural therapy, human emotional system, gardening activities 1. Introduction Horticultural therapy can be defined as a therapeutic method using plants and plant-related activities to control physical and mental ailments (AHTA, 2012). This therapy is special because it uses living material as a powerful tool to heal people’s mind, body and spirit for enhancing physical, mental and social health (Simson & Straus, 2003, Chapter 1). The principle of horticultural therapy is widely accepted and is being practiced worldwide as an effective alternative treatment method. It is used in healthcare facilities, community agencies, schools, nursing homes, rehabilitation, and vocational centers. People of any age or disability can participate and the activities can be customized for each person. The psychological worth of people-plant interactions is hugely beneficial as it allows individuals to escape from the demands of everyday life permitting them to think about less stressful things, imagine fewer psychological boundaries and recover from the repeated focused attention required when completing stressful work (Simson & Straus, 2003, Chapter 2). A relaxed environment that promotes tranquility can foster achieving of personal goals and aspirations, which in turn can help to increase self-esteem as well as help to improve one’s sense of worth (Simson & Straus, 2003, Chapter 11). ArtyPlantz Nature Revitalisation Private Limited.is a social enterprise with the mission to connect people to nature. Horticultural Therapy is one of the enterprises incubated and promoted by ArtyPlantz. The aim of our study is to present the importance of horticultural therapy activities and to show how this is hugely impacts our senses. The major benefit of horticultural therapy is that it improves cognitive, physical, social, emotional and spiritual wellbeing. When we interact with nature through Horticulture Therapy, we experience natural textures, soothing colours, soft sounds and refreshing smells. This experience calms the mind, triggers positive memories, and leads to tranquility all of which help people with troubled minds. Horticultural therapy sessions consist of a group of activities with specific treatment goals. We use a number of activities both for groups and individuals for therapeutic purpose. Activities impacting smell and sight appear to have the most impact on participants. The sense of smell is the ‘canary in the coalmine’ of human health (Pinto, Wroblewski, Kern, Schumm, & McClintock, 2014). Smell is the most powerful sense, which triggers specific memories. It is well used in therapy to help alleviate amnesia. Studies also show that smells can have an effect on what we buy and how much we spend (Rodriguez-Gil, 2004). Research conducted by The University of Maryland on the fragrance of lavender and its utilization in sleeping disorder, tension, stress and post-surgery period found that the fragrance of lavender can moderate the movement of the sensory system, enhance sleeping quality, peacefulness, and mood enhancement in individuals experiencing different issues, like some food smells helps to restore relaxation and impact on the body and brain (Dobson, 2015). Similarly, another study by the University of Heidelberg found that low intensity exercise before going to sleep results in peaceful sleep with positive dreams. Additionally it was found that the odor helps people feel more refreshed and Paper ID: ART20182509 DOI: 10.21275/ART20182509 1042