Biophilic Design and Psychological Well-being: Developing a Conceptual Framework through the Lens of the Indian Prakriti Perspective

Abstract

Modern lifestyles and rapidly urbanizing environments have significantly reduced daily contact with nature, despite humans having evolved in continuous interaction with natural surroundings. This separation has been linked to heightened stress, reduced emotional balance, and cognitive fatigue. Biophilic design, which incorporates natural elements and patterns into interior and architectural spaces, offers a pathway to restoring this connection. This review synthesizes existing research on biophilic design and its psychological outcomes, interpreted through the lens of Prakriti, the natural state of balance in human functioning. A narrative review with thematic analysis was conducted using ResearchGate, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and PubMed. Studies were included if they examined biophilic or nature-based design and reported psychological, emotional, cognitive, or behavioral outcomes. Eligible studies were screened, reviewed, and thematically organized. Across settings such as workplaces, classrooms, healthcare spaces, and residential environments, biophilic elements consistently reduced stress and anxiety, improved mood, enhanced attention and cognitive restoration, and supported psychological well-being. Some studies also reported better social interaction and physiological stress recovery. Interpreted through Prakriti, these findings suggest that biophilic environments help re-align human functioning with natural needs. Overall, biophilic design emerges as a meaningful contributor to mental health and restorative living.