Physiological Effects of Touching Wood

Area of Science:

• Environmental Psychology
• Neuroscience
• Human Physiology

Background:

• Understanding the physiological impact of tactile sensory experiences is crucial for promoting well-being.
• Previous research suggests natural environments can reduce stress, but the specific effects of touching natural materials like wood are less understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the distinct physiological effects of palm contact with wood versus other common materials.
• To assess changes in brain activity and autonomic nervous system function induced by tactile stimulation.

Main Methods:

• Eighteen female university students participated in a controlled experiment.
• Brain activity was monitored via oxyhemoglobin (oxy-Hb) concentrations in the prefrontal cortex using near-infrared time-resolved spectroscopy.
• Autonomic nervous activity was assessed using heart rate variability (HRV), specifically analyzing the high-frequency (HF) component and the low-frequency (LF)/HF ratio.

Main Results:

• Tactile stimulation with white oak significantly decreased oxy-Hb concentrations in the prefrontal cortex compared to marble, tile, and stainless steel.
• Touching white oak led to a significant increase in parasympathetic nervous activity (reflected by ln(HF)) relative to marble and stainless steel.
• These findings suggest wood contact promotes a state of physiological relaxation.

Conclusions:

• Touching wood with the palm induces greater physiological relaxation than touching marble, tile, or stainless steel.
• Wood tactile stimulation effectively calms prefrontal cortex activity and enhances parasympathetic nervous system function.
• These results highlight the potential of wood as a material for stress reduction and promoting relaxation.