Next in the Be in Your Element series, we take a closer look at the earth element to find the secret to happiness in dirt!
We explore the medicinal properties of raw natural materials and see how a Breeze House enriches the lives of its owners while celebrating the mastery of those who craft them.
There’s mounting evidence to suggest that making room for nature in your life is healing. For example, did you know the smell of soil increases serotonin production, and dirt under your fingernails can improve gut health? Discover more about the healing power of Earth…
The Healing Power of Earth
In 2016, a groundbreaking study revealed that bacteria found in soil triggered an increase in serotonin, the natural mood booster, in mice. This discovery was hailed as one of the top 10 advancements in mental health research and led to further investigations into whether the bacteria Mycobacterium vaccae could reduce inflammation in the brain and improve mental health conditions.
Soil contains beneficial microbes which act as natural probiotics enhancing immunity, improving mood and supporting digestion. So, the next time you spot dirt under your fingernails, you’re well on your way to being a healthier, happier you from the inside out.
Reconnecting with the Earth’s Natural Resources
Humans thrive in environments made up of natural materials that are as raw as possible. Take wood, for example. Experiments carried out in Austria, Canada, Japan, and Norway have shown that wood has a stress-reducing effect. In its presence, blood pressure lowers and pulse rates slow. The same experiments concluded that an interior made up of 90% wood is too calming to be a place for work.
Wood feels warmer and has a distinctive sweet, earthy smell. The visual interest of the grain and the beautiful tactile texture of wood provide a reassuring sense of being close to nature, helping to soothe and relax our bodies.
Celebrating Craft
To spend more time in spaces that connect us with the natural world, we need craftspeople to help us create that link.
In Breeze House’s case, masters of their craft turn raw redwood into a refined retreat that blends seamlessly with the landscape. Their deep understanding of the wood they work means they create something of beauty and value out of Earth’s raw materials.
Surrounding ourselves with designed spaces that celebrate craft creates a dialogue between nature’s raw materials and the human desire to build with them.
Wellbeing Without Costing the Earth
Our best interests and those of our natural environment are one and the same. The Earth needs to be cherished and protected just as much as we do. A building crafted from wood that embraces the natural world should sustain and respect the planet.
Breeze House is committed to minimising environmental impact by sourcing timber from sustainable forestry companies. Our Cape reed is harvested from renewable sources, supporting South African communities and promoting sustainable practices.
Through our partnership with Treedom, Breeze House plants a tree for every customer, contributing to the Breeze House Forest in Ecuador. This initiative supports local farmers, provides sustainable livelihoods, and enhances biodiversity.
Reconnecting People with Nature for over 30 Years
For 30 years, Breeze House has reintroduced people to nature. As the creators of the original luxury thatched garden gazebo, we understood the British weather should not limit the revitalising power of being outdoors on health and happiness. Equipped with weather-defying accessories, each Breeze House invites you to embrace the elements and discover luxury in nature.
Join us as we continue to explore the elements and discover how to transform your well-being and enrich your life in ways that are both meaningful and sustainable.