Mental imagery of nature induces positive psychological effects

Abstract Exposure to natural environments promotes positive psychological effects. Experimental studies on this issue typically have not been able distinguish the contributions of top-down processes from stimulus-driven bottom-up processing. We tested in an online study whether mental imagery (top-down processing) restorative would produce effects, as compared with built and non-restorative urban environments. The participants (n = 70) two countries (Finland Norway) imagined being present different for 30 s, after which they rated their subjective experiences relating vividness imagery, relaxation, emotional arousal, valence (positivity vs. negativity) emotions, effort. In addition, a psychometric scale measuring imagination, nature connectedness, questionnaire preference were filled-in. Imagery elicited stronger more relaxation than Nature connectedness moderated these but did fully explain affective benefits nature. Scores associated consistent way ratings task, suggesting that performed attentively honestly reporting experiences. conclude factors play key role effects A practical implication findings is inclusion elements imagery-based interventions may help increasing states.