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Harumi IKEI
Researchmap
Tenure Track Associate ProfessorInstitute for Advanced Academic Research / Center for Environment, Health and Field Sciences
Keywords
Nature therapy, Forests, Urban parks, Wood, Flowers, Foliage plants, Five senses, Comfort, Relaxation, Physiological indicators, Individual differences, High-stress person
Professional Memberships
Japan Society of Physiological Anthropology, Japan Society of KANSEI Engineering, Japan Wood Research Society, Architectural Institute of Japan
Research Theme
Nature Therapy: Elucidating the Physiological Effects of the Nature Environment and Nature-derived Stimuli on Humans
Abstract
My research focuses on elucidating the physiological effects of the natural environment and nature-derived stimuli on humans. By measuring brain activity (using near-infrared spectroscopy to assess prefrontal cortex activity), autonomic nervous activity (evaluating parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous activity through heart rate variability), and endocrine activity (monitoring stress hormone concentration), I am accumulating scientific data on the physiological relaxation effects that nature brings.
Recent Topics of Interests
Ⅰ. Clarification of individual differences: There are individual differences in the physiological relaxation effects that nature brings. These individual differences have drawn attention as an issue that should be clarified in various fields, but research has not progressed significantly.
I am working towards understanding these individual differences by accumulating scientific evidence, including various approach methods.
Ⅱ. Application to individuals with high stress: In previous research, the main focus has been on healthy individuals in their twenties. However, I am now advancing the investigation of the effects on individuals who experience high-stress levels in their daily lives, such as children with developmental disabilities and patients with depression.
