Expansive views of nature that include water and trees are the most psychologically appropriate in helping patients recover, according to the findings of Roger S. Ulrich, Ph.D., Director for The Center for Health Design, and Director of the Center for Health Systems and Design at Texas A&M University. His research shows that such positive images can substantially improve outcomes such as blood pressure, anxiety, intake of pain medication and length of hospital stay.

Behavioral scientists have found that only a small number of things reduce stress and hold attention in positive ways across cultures and among different personalities. The most common are caring human faces, music in certain keys and colorful, happy views of nature.

Dr. Ulrich's studies proved that representational nature art with distant horizons, water and trees, had measurable beneficial effects on patients experiencing pain and anxiety.

Since we are all strongly affected by the images around us, we might also consider enhancing our work or home environments with visual stimuli that promote a sense of peace, happiness and well-being.

"Drawing upon images of nature for their universal power to calm and inspire, I try to capture their essence in color and form.  The viewer is invited to step inside this new visual environment.   I have a sense of accomplishment when a painting or mural evokes feelings of tranquility and delight."

Ellen Joseph