Waves of the Heart
The joy of a fleeting moment, the sudden onset of anxiety—the human heart is in constant flux. These changes are influenced by both internal factors originating from within oneself and external factors stemming from the surrounding environment. We introduce research conducted by Hyogo Prefectural University aimed at comprehensively elucidating the mechanisms and impacts of emotional fluctuations, with the ultimate goal of achieving better well-being.
Listening to the Voiceless
Yasuko Inoue
Professor, Institute of Natural and Environmental Sciences
I specialize in clinical psychology and have worked as a clinical psychologist and licensed psychologist in educational, welfare, and medical settings, providing counseling services. Drawing on my own experience of struggling with an unchangeable fate, I began researching ways to support others facing similar challenges. I am exploring the essence of counseling from both theoretical and practical perspectives, to contribute to the healing and growth of individuals facing various life challenges. Additionally, I am actively involved in supporting children living in child welfare facilities and on remote islands, conducting psychological workshops using local folklore, and creating learning opportunities through exchanges between university students and high school students at these facilities.
The appeal of clinical psychology lies in the realization that the human mind is far more complex and mysterious than we can imagine. We tend to think that we control our lives with our own will, but in reality, we are greatly influenced by our unconscious minds. Through counseling, as the essence of one’s worries and difficulties gradually becomes clear, one can realize that they are not just suffering, but have an essential meaning that can lead to personal growth. I find great fulfillment in witnessing the process of healing and self-discovery that occurs when I deeply connect with the hearts of those seeking counseling.
In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of people suffering from emotional scars caused by abuse and difficulties in living. One reason for this is that they are unable to gain sufficient empathy from their families and those around them, which makes it difficult for them to develop the ability to imagine the feelings of others. In addition, with the rapid development of the information society, natural destruction of the mind has occurred, and it is thought that modern people are suffering deeply in their minds and bodies. Through individual counseling, I am conducting practical research on the innate “self-healing power” that all people possess. I am also theoretically exploring what constitutes the foundation for a mind that can affirm oneself and feel that “it is okay to be alive,” and where the power to create such a foundation originates. Through these practical efforts and research, I aim to continue conveying the importance of human connections and the value of the mind, which is often overlooked in modern society.
Expanding Research
What Happens When People Interact Through Plants? Exploring the Essence of Horticultural Therapy
Takuya Kenmochi
Lecturer, Graduate School of Landscape Design and Management
I am researching the effects of human interaction with plants on mental and social health. With nearly 20 years of clinical experience as a horticultural therapist, I firmly believe that interaction with plants is beneficial for both physical and mental health. However, there are not many places where people can receive horticultural therapy. Therefore, I would like to contribute to the well-being of more people by clearly demonstrating the effects of horticultural therapy and interaction with plants and promoting their use.
Previous research has shown that interactions with plants can reduce anxiety and increase motivation and vitality. Currently, I am focusing on the power of plants to connect people and am researching community formation in green spaces. Although the health benefits of plant-based activities are well understood from experience, the mechanisms behind them are not yet fully understood. Responses vary depending on factors such as the type of interaction with plants or nature, as well as age, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. However, some people experience significant benefits. Despite the challenges of demonstrating the effects on mental health, I believe that my research has great potential to help people who are struggling with life.
In Japan, the aging population and declining birthrate are expected to accelerate, leading to increased burdens on medical care and welfare. The importance of efforts to prevent illness and maintain mental health is growing ever more critical. Demonstrating the effects of interacting with plants on mental health can lead to the utilization of plant-mediated activities as a means of maintaining mental health. Additionally, the pandemic has led to a global increase in people finding comfort in living with plants, drawing attention to research on the relationship between plants and human health. I believe that my efforts have the potential to contribute to solving future societal challenges and so I will continue to study the power of plant-mediated interactions.
Focus on Person
Valuing a “Safe Space” Where Both Children and Adults Can Thrive
I am researching the mindset and qualities necessary for staff to operate children’s dining halls sustainably. Through my volunteer experience, I have come to realize that children’s dining halls serve as a place of belonging for children while also providing staff with a sense of purpose. Moving forward, I aim to identify mechanisms that support staff fulfillment and apply these insights to regional welfare and volunteer support. Additionally, by leveraging psychological knowledge, my goal is to contribute to community development by fostering mutual support across roles and generations, transcending the boundaries between those who provide support and those who receive it.
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Valuing a “Safe Space” Where Both Children and Adults Can Thrive
Natsuho Manabe
4th year student, School of Human Science and Environment
Aiming to Create Nature Observation Experiences Enjoyable for Everyone
With the theme of “Nature Observation Events in Urban Parks Enjoyed Together with Visually Impaired Individuals,” I am conducting research aimed at creating spaces where everyone can enjoy nature without relying on vision. Through the experience of “feeling nature,” regardless of disability, I hope to help people feel the changing seasons and the activities of living things, and spend time enriching their hearts. Currently, I am challenging myself by organizing observation events within the university campus. In the future, I aim to hold nature observation events in urban parks that visually impaired individuals can enjoy together, hoping this will be a step toward enabling everyone to benefit from nature in urban parks.
Aiming to Create Nature Observation Experiences Enjoyable for Everyone
Hatsumi Maruyama
2nd year student,
Graduate School of Landscape Design and Management