Dr. Carl Simonton
A NEW WAY OF EXPERIENCING HEALTHCARE ENVIRONMENTS
Today, healthcare environments are called upon to care not only for illness, but also for the quality of the experience lived by patients, families and healthcare professionals.
Nature represents one of the most studied non-pharmacological resources for supporting stress reduction, anxiety relief and the recovery of personal resources.
BIOPHILIA AND ENVIRONMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY
Over recent decades, numerous studies have shown how the characteristics of environments significantly influence people’s experiences in healthcare and care settings.
The presence of natural elements is associated with reduced stress and anxiety, lower pain perception, and more favourable conditions for attention, relationships and well-being, including for physicians, healthcare professionals and caregivers.
These findings are part of a broader field of research developed over recent decades, from Roger Ulrich’s studies on Stress Recovery Theory to Stephen and Rachel Kaplan’s work on Attention Restoration Theory.
Within this framework, nature videos have emerged as a non-pharmacological support in different healthcare and rehabilitation contexts, contributing to emotional regulation and to the overall quality of a person’s experience.
WHEN NATURE BECOMES PART OF CARE
Every care pathway has specific needs. Alamar Life supports different contexts with experiences of Nature designed around people’s characteristics and the objectives of each activity.
DEMENTIA AND COGNITIVE FRAILTY
In contexts of cognitive decline, the quality of the environment can influence emotional states and the perception of the present moment.
Natural scenes offer a stable, recognisable and non-invasive experience that can support calm, orientation and a reduction in agitation, while also helping maintain remaining abilities and emotional well-being.
ADDICTIONS AND EMOTIONAL REGULATION
During recovery from addiction, regaining balance and emotional regulation abilities represents an important part of the therapeutic process.
Viewing natural sequences can support greater emotional stability, helping strengthen self-regulation skills.
PHYSICAL AND NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL REHABILITATION
In rehabilitation pathways, the environment can influence motivation, attention and continuity throughout the therapeutic experience.
Natural images create a perceptual setting that can support recovery, encouraging presence, attention and participation.
Nature Supporting Those Who Care
Beyond supporting the well-being of people receiving care, Alamar Life also accompanies the daily work of physicians, nurses, healthcare assistants, therapists and educators.
The presence of Nature contributes to creating a calmer atmosphere and supports relationships with residents, offering a shared reference point during everyday activities and more delicate moments, such as assisted personal care.
An environment perceived as more harmonious also positively influences families and visitors, helping improve the overall quality of the experience within the facility.
TESTIMONIALS
Emilia sees the films with an impressive hunger for beauty, she is completely dazzled, there is nothing around her during the forty-minute session.
Emilia sees the films with an impressive hunger for beauty, she is completely dazzled, there is nothing around her during the forty-minute session.
We can’t bring them to the mountains, but we can bring the mountains to the care facility and make them feel at home again. This is the great power we have; we give them back their lives. … It is really a therapeutic tool; it is pure therapy for the soul and the heart.
Emotions and sensations of enchantment and beauty. The environment becomes serene and welcoming. The first result was a reduction in so-called ‘behaviour disorders’. On a physical level, too, some of them felt improvements.
Romeo had not spoken for two years; he no longer expressed any emotion. One day I projected the video of the sea and out of the blue we heard “Ah, the sea!”. He started telling us that he had asked his wife, kneeling on the beach, to get married. They then got married and went back there on their honeymoon. And he told us about his honeymoon.
Romeo had not spoken for two years; he no longer expressed any emotion. One day I projected the video of the sea and out of the blue we heard “Ah, the sea!”. He started telling us that he had asked his wife, kneeling on the beach, to get married. They then got married and went back there on their honeymoon. And he told us about his honeymoon.
Within three minutes, no more, A. slowly stops crying, his face relaxes, his mood changes completely from anguished to carefree. The videos really seem to be a great way for these people to bring back their fondest memories.
While watching therapeutic TV, the lady relaxes and manages to sleep. Even now, during the nights when she starts to manifest psychomotor agitation, the operators bring her in front of the therapeutic TV and most of the time this proves to be decisive.
In the serenity, in front of a forest, a flower, or other images, memories also began to surface. Or people began to sing, or remembered a nursery rhyme. The climate influenced the family members themselves. For example, a group of relatives had formed, who would have the residents sing in the evening after dinner, in front of the pictures. The tranquillity that allowed for conversation had been created.
There are often moments of sharing on reminiscences, tales of their experiences or memories, and with emotion and sighs many manage to let us understand the inner depth that these videos allow them to reach.
They have become so in tune with the experience that it now becomes almost spontaneous for them to listen and get into synergy with the activity in order to respond actively and enthusiastically.
Last but not least, the sense of beauty that these nature paintings have been able to create in the facility. The paintings that are projected are truly beautiful, are never the same, and also aesthetically create a pleasant environment to be in.
Last but not least, the sense of beauty that these nature paintings have been able to create in the facility. The paintings that are projected are truly beautiful, are never the same, and also aesthetically create a pleasant environment to be in.
They have become so in tune with the experience that it now becomes almost spontaneous for them to listen and get into synergy with the activity in order to respond actively and enthusiastically.
The methodology of storytelling combined with the stimulation of nature videos arouses, activates, conveys emotions. The conversational dimension is intensified in the group. The memory dimension is activated from the natural place, but only transits from there to the connected and personal sensations and EMOTIONS.
Rereading the stories that have been made makes us realise the richness of this proposal, which does not end in the time of the actual narration, but continues on the written page. We are collecting them with the idea of enhancing and highlighting, preserving them with care.
Also the caregivers have been facilitated in their work. The projections of the Relaxation Channel manage to give a rhythm to the work of caring, which is slow and delicate. This slowing down can be perceived in so many actions of daily life: one sees more, hears more, feels more… this is perhaps the biggest change that the programme has brought about.
Emilia sees the films with an impressive hunger for beauty, she is completely dazzled, there is nothing around her during the forty-minute session.
The interesting observation – and one that I think would be worth investigating with a more detailed study – is that the videos introduced an important cognitive and attentional stimulus after a moment of relaxation, while maintaining calm and tranquillity within the session.
We had two residents who no longer wanted to eat, they said ‘I don’t want to live anymore, so I won’t eat’. We put the fruit DVD rather than the garden DVD and eventually they started eating on their own, autonomously.
Also the caregivers have been facilitated in their work. The projections of the Relaxation Channel manage to give a rhythm to the work of caring, which is slow and delicate. This slowing down can be perceived in so many actions of daily life: one sees more, hears more, feels more… this is perhaps the biggest change that the programme has brought about.
The first element you must always reflect on is the environment in the sense of stimuli, colours, possibilities. I believe that our televisions must remain switched off and there must be a wisdom that proposes thoughtful images on the biography of these people. This video, which also brings us back to peace, has to be turned on. Two, three armchairs, the video goes and you have created an environmental pause so that the person can sit, rest for three or four minutes and restart. Today we can choose things that have a very low economic impact and a very high impact on the quality of life. Doing this is an improvement.
FROM EXPERIENCE TO RESEARCH
The observations collected over the years have led to collaborations with universities, experimental studies and research projects dedicated to the effects of audiovisual experiences of Nature.
“There is scientific evidence of the positive influence of Nature not only on the psychological well-being of patients, but also on the success of the therapeutic process.”
Dr Vibe-Petersen
Head of Internal Medicine, Center for Cancer and Health, Copenhagen
REDISCOVERING THE JOY OF LIVING EVEN THROUGH ILLNESS.
Clinical and educational experiences describe the use of audiovisual content in dementia care settings.
“Rediscovering the memory of pleasant moments from one’s life can return fragments of identity to a person living with dementia. Reminiscence brings serenity and well-being and has an emotional and relational function, as well as a cognitive one: through the recovery of memories, a person can once again perceive a sense of continuity in time and feel reassured. Reducing anxiety, in turn, frees and improves all other cognitive functions.”
Dr Cristina Innocenti
Psychologist and psychotherapist – Transactional Analysis Analyst TSTA-p
Conference “Images Beyond Memory”.
“Alamar Life videos represent a care approach capable of reducing physical and pharmacological restraint for people living with dementia, making it possible to create a relationship based on ‘feeling’—an effective and fundamental approach when connecting with a person living with dementia.”
Dr Letizia Espanoli
Sente-Mente Project – Conference “II Sente-Mente Day”
ALAMAR LIFE EXPERIENCES IN DEMENTIA CARE SETTINGS
APPLICATION AREAS
-
- Hair salon
- Activity room
- Multisensory room
- Patient rooms
- Assisted bathroom
- Dining room
- Meeting room
- Staff room
- Reception area
WAYS OF USE
Passive Viewing
In spaces dedicated to relaxation, restoration and social interaction, before, during and after activities, during post-meal moments and before night-time rest.
Active Viewing
Active use also includes The Imagined Story, a narrative experience that transforms the observation of Nature into a moment of participation and connection. Through familiar environments, people can create shared stories, bring out memories and emotions, and experience opportunities for communication and relationships within the group.
Discover more → The Imagined Story
Individual Use (One-to-One)
To accompany individuals during moments of difficulty, support relaxation and create a dedicated space for connection.
OBSERVED BENEFITS
-
- Emotional regulation and reduced agitation.
- Greater relational openness and participation in activities.
- Increased attention, concentration and involvement.
- Support for reminiscence and communication.
- Serenity, positive mood and relaxation.
- Reduction of behavioural disturbances (e.g. disorientation and repetitive behaviours).
A NATURAL, GRADUAL AND PERSONALISABLE APPROACH.
Every person on the autism spectrum has different characteristics, sensitivities and ways of relating to the environment. For this reason, Alamar Life content can be used gradually and personalised, respecting individual needs and timing.
The audiovisual experience of Nature offers a controlled visual and auditory stimulus, capable of supporting moments of relaxation, attention and emotional regulation without overwhelming the person.
Through recognisable images, natural rhythms and harmonious sequences, Alamar Life videos can help create a welcoming and predictable environment, supporting conditions of calm and well-being.
THE OPPORTUNITIES OFFERED BY THE METHOD
One of the distinctive aspects of using Alamar Life content in the field of autism is the possibility of adapting the experience according to the characteristics, sensitivities and needs of each individual.
Modulating auditory stimuli
People on the autism spectrum may have different ways of perceiving auditory stimuli. Sound systems can be adapted to individual needs by adjusting volume intensity and sound characteristics, creating a more comfortable experience.
Modulating visual stimuli
Visual perception can be personalised through a gradual introduction of stimuli: from reduced colour intensity to the full perception of colours. This allows a progressive approach to the experience of Nature, respecting the person’s own pace.
Accessing Nature in a safe and immediate way
Alamar Life videos make it possible to experience natural environments even when direct access to Nature is not possible, offering a predictable and controllable space.
The possibility of quickly interrupting or modifying the experience
Even in welcoming environments, moments of discomfort may arise due to emotional changes or individual sensitivities. The possibility of quickly interrupting or modifying the stimulus allows the experience to be adapted to the needs of the moment.
Preparing for new environments and experiences
Videos can help anticipate unfamiliar places and situations, promoting familiarity and security through an initial mediated encounter with natural environments.
Integrating the experience into educational pathways
In educational settings, Nature can become a tool for making learning more concrete and engaging, supporting topics such as seasons, environments, colours and living organisms through a shared experience.
The use of content can also help observe preferences, responses to stimuli and the sensory channels that are most engaging, creating new opportunities for relationship, participation and autonomy.
NATURE AS SUPPORT FOR EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING.
Viewing Alamar Life sequences can be used as a non-pharmacological experience supporting psychological well-being, promoting relaxation, emotional balance and quality of life.
The audiovisual experience of Nature engages the sensory, emotional and imaginative dimensions of the person, offering a space for calm and inner reflection. Some studies have shown that exposure to brief natural sequences can contribute to improving emotional states and reducing tension even after only a few minutes.
The relationship with Nature can also become an active experience through images, storytelling and imagination, supporting emotional awareness and the opportunity to connect with personal experiences.
THE IMAGINED STORY
The Imagined Story is an experiential approach that transforms the relationship with Nature from a contemplative experience into an active one.
Through Alamar Life moving images, people enter the scene through their imagination and create a narrative made of places, characters, emotions and personal meanings.
Natural environments become a symbolic space where memories, personal experiences and emotions can emerge. The individual or shared creation of a story allows people to explore their inner world through the language of images, supporting emotional expression, creativity, listening and connection.
Used in psychological and educational contexts, The Imagined Story offers an original way to use Nature as an active element within a pathway: not only as a relaxing experience, but as a space for participation, storytelling and encounter.
BENEFITS OF THE EXPERIENCE
The use of Alamar Life videos can contribute to:
- promoting relaxation and reducing states of tension;
- supporting emotional regulation and the processing of personal experiences;
- stimulating attention, concentration, imagination and creativity;
- encouraging emotional expression through images and storytelling;
- creating opportunities for connection, listening and sharing in individual and group pathways;
- supporting well-being, participation and quality of life;
- strengthening cohesion and involvement in collective activities.
Nature becomes a space where perception, emotion and connection meet, offering new opportunities for well-being and participation within psychological pathways.
NATURE AS SUPPORT THROUGH THE CARE JOURNEY.
In oncology settings, Alamar Life videos bring the experience of Nature into environments where stress, waiting and suffering are part of everyday life.
Natural images can support relaxation, emotional relief and a better quality of experience throughout the care journey, offering a space of calm and attention focused on the person.
Nature acts through a dual dimension: perceptual and evocative. On one side, it engages the senses through forms, colours and movement; on the other, it evokes images, memories and emotions that can positively influence psychophysical states.
Research has shown that viewing natural images can contribute to reducing stress and pain perception, even in complex healthcare contexts. Studies involving patients undergoing medical procedures have shown lower perceived pain when natural images were present compared with urban images or no images.
The audiovisual experience of Nature can also help interrupt thoughts connected to illness, creating moments of calm, presence and well-being throughout the care journey.
USES
- Daily practice to support relaxation and restoration.
- During treatments and waiting periods.
- In waiting rooms for diagnostic procedures, treatments and interventions.
- In patient rooms and post-operative pathways.
ADDICTIONS AND EMOTIONAL REGULATION.
Emotional regulation is one of the key aspects in addiction recovery pathways. Difficulties in managing stress, anxiety and impulses can hinder the therapeutic process and the maintenance of well-being.
Alamar Life immersive experiences support a natural state of relaxation through the contemplation of natural landscapes and sounds, helping reduce emotional tension and strengthen self-regulation abilities.
EXPERIMENTAL STUDY IN THREE RECOVERY COMMUNITIES OF COOPERATIVA IL PUNTO (BI), Italy.
A study conducted in three therapeutic recovery communities, serving people with high, medium and low levels of addiction severity, highlighted an improvement in emotional regulation among participants who used the Alamar Life Method compared with control groups.
The assessment was carried out using the DERS (Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale), a validated questionnaire measuring difficulties in regulating negative emotions and managing impulses.
The DERS results showed an increased ability to control emotions in 75% of participants in the experimental group, compared with 23% in the control group.
The study was carried out at the addiction recovery centres of Cooperativa Il Punto (Biella) by Dr Daniele Carraro, Dr Lidia Barazzetto, Manuela De Maria and Eleonora Boi.
The results were presented at the National Congress of SITD (Italian Society of Addiction Studies).
NATURE AS SUPPORT IN THE REHABILITATION JOURNEY.
The presence of Nature is associated with reduced stress, improved psychological well-being and a greater ability to restore cognitive resources. Integrating immersive natural landscape experiences into rehabilitation can make exercises more engaging and encourage a calmer and more continuous participation.
Alamar Life audiovisual experiences accompany physical, motor and psychomotor rehabilitation activities, transforming exercise time into a more pleasant and motivating moment. Also in neuropsychological rehabilitation, immersion in natural environments can contribute to creating favourable conditions for relaxation, attention and personal well-being.
“I cannot say exactly how nature exerts its calming and organising effects on our brains, but I have seen in my patients the reparative and healing powers of nature and gardens, even for those who are profoundly neurologically disabled.”
Oliver Sacks
Neurologist and writer
BENEFITS
- Encouraging a positive attitude and greater motivation.
- Making the rehabilitation pathway more engaging and enjoyable.
- Helping alleviate the perception of pain and discomfort.
- Supporting a forward-oriented gaze during exercises.
- Promoting relaxation and psychophysical well-being.
Solutions for Healthcare Environments
Alamar Life Care Channel
The continuous presence of Nature through a programme designed to accompany different moments of the day.
Alamar Life Care Player
The ability to create personalised experiences based on activities, spaces and the needs of individuals.
2019 RI.GENE.RA National event on the influence of frequencies on stem cells
Full talk by Cristina Fino.
2019 RI.GENE.RA National event on the influence of frequencies on stem cells
Extracts from Cristina Fino’s intervention.
2019 RI.GENE.RA National event on the influence of frequencies on stem cells
Maurizio Forza introduces Cristina Fino – excerpts.
2019 Meeting of Care Professions – Cristina Fino presents the Relax Experience Nature Care channel, the 1st therapeutic TV.
2019 Meeting of Care Professions – Anna Daccordo, psychologist: Experience Nature videos as a therapeutic tool.
ALZHEIMER
2019 Meeting of Care Professions – Cristina Falomi, dementia social educator: testimonies.
ALZHEIMER
2019 Meeting of Care Professions – Angela Eccher, Alzheimer unit manager: testimonies.
ALZHEIMER
2019 Meeting of Care Professions – Samanta Noldin, dementia social educator: testimonies.
ALZHEIMER
2019 Meeting of Care Professions – Cristina Fino explains Experience Nature.
2018 “Waiting for Alzheimer Fest” – Cristina Fino explains the Experience Nature method in personal care
ALZHEIMER
2018 “Waiting for Alzheimer Fest” – Samanta Noldin, dementia social educator, talks about her experience with Experience Nature videos.
ALZHEIMER
2018 Meeting of Care Professions – Cristina Falomi talks about her experience with Experience Nature in creative storytelling.
ALZHEIMER
2017 National Non-self-sufficiency Forum Workshop on Non-pharmacological Therapies.
NON-SELF-SUFFICIENCY
2017 Integrated Oncology Conference – Modena Forum Monzani.
ONCOLOGY
2017 Cultivating Beauty in Care Homes – speaker Cristina Fino.
ALZHEIMER
2016 III Sente-Mente Day conference – speaker Dr. Di Gioia.
ALZHEIMER
2016 III Sente-Mente Day conference – speaker Cristina Fino.
ALZHEIMER
2015 National Conference Italian Society of Addiction – speaker Dr. Carraro.
ADDICTIONS
2015 1st Conference “Images beyond memory” – University of Pisa.
ALZHEIMER
2015 4th Neuroscience and Neuropsychology Conference – organised by PerFormat.
CHILDREN and ALZHEIMER
2015 Meeting of the Socio-Health Professions – speaker Dr Di Gioia.
ALZHEIMER
2015 Conference “Images beyond Memory” – Natural History Museum University of Pisa.
ALZHEIMER
2015 2nd Conference Sente-Mente Day by Letizia Espanoli
ALZHEIMER
2014 1st Conference Sente-Mente Day by Letizia Espanoli
ALZHEIMER
DISCOVER WHAT ALAMAR LIFE CAN DO FOR YOU.
Every environment, every person and every situation has unique needs.
Alamar Life creates audiovisual Nature experiences designed to support well-being across a wide range of settings: healthcare, hospitality, workplaces, education and everyday life.
Tell us about your project. We will be delighted to help you bring the presence of Nature into the spaces where you live, work or care for others.
