Green minds, sharp thoughts: How grass contact enhances cognitive performance and well-being in young adults

The rapid advancement of information technology has substantially increased stress levels in modern society, highlighting the critical need for effective strategies to manage and reduce stress. This study investigated psychophysiological approaches to stress reduction by examining the effects of direct palm contact with natural materials. A within-subject design was used, involving 44 young Chinese adults (mean age: 21.2 ± 0.3 years), who were instructed to make direct palm contact with two natural materials: wood and grass. Physiological responses were measured through blood pressure readings and electroencephalography (EEG), while psychological responses were assessed using the Semantic Differential Method (SDM) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). The results showed that direct palm contact with grass significantly lowered diastolic blood pressure and increased alpha and beta brainwave activity compared to the control condition (contact with wood). Psychological assessments revealed that participants felt moderately comfortable, relaxed, and less anxious after making contact with grass. These findings suggest that direct physical interaction with grass may be an effective way to reduce psychophysiological stress in adults.