When snipers need to rest and reset their eyesight after hours of staring down a barrel, they stare at a green piece of paper for 10 minutes.
Fascinating - but why?
The easy answer is that the colour green, is the easiest colour for the human eye to process. Coincidentally, red is the most intrusive (cue traffic lights by design!).
The science behind it is fascinating, especially when you start making links with spending time in nature.
When you think about colours, green often stands out in ways other hues don’t. It’s everywhere in nature—think lush forests, rolling hills, and even your backyard garden.
But why is the human eye is particularly drawn to green?
Nature’s influence
In Aotearoa, we're surrounded by stunning landscapes filled with green. From the dense native bush of the Waitākere Ranges to the expansive fields of Marlborough, green is often synonymous with what makes this country special.
This abundance of greenery isn’t just aesthetically pleasing; it plays a significant role in our well-being. Being in green spaces has a way of lowering our stress levels and lifting our mood. Scientific studies have shown that spending time in nature can significantly boost mental health. For many that live in the city, 'green spaces' have become a thing. Finding a patch of green—be it a park or a garden—can offer a much-needed escape from daily stress.
It’s no surprise that there's a new movement calling for nature to be engrained in architecture and design - biophilic design. Companies are increasingly prioritising green environments for their employees, as these spaces can improve focus and productivity.
The science behind the green attraction
Scientifically, our attraction to green is tied to how our eyes work.
Human vision is particularly sensitive to green wavelengths, which falls within the 495-570 nanometre range (a nanometre is one thousand-millionth of a metre). For context, an average human hair is about 60,000 nanometers thick! Nanometers are used to measure wavelengths of light and distances between atoms in molecules.
This sensitivity likely stems from our evolutionary past, where being able to spot green vegetation was crucial for survival—after all, it signalled food and safety.
So researchers have found that green light is less straining on the eyes compared to other colors. This means environments dominated by green can be more relaxing and easier on the eyes - especially during long hours spent in front of screens.
Looking at green spaces can reduce stress levels and promote a sense of well-being. This calming effect extends to your eyes as well. When you look at green scenery, your eyes are less likely to strain compared to when you're focusing on a bright, artificial screen. This natural relaxation can help improve overall eye health and reduce the risk of developing conditions like myopia (nearsightedness).
How companies have harnessed the power of green
Take a look at how green influences various sectors. In the corporate world, many companies use green in their branding and office designs (including us - but it would have been weird not to!).
Green communicates messages of health, sustainability, and growth—attributes that resonate with consumers and employees alike. Kiwi companies like to leverage green to convey a commitment to environmental responsibility. It’s a visual cue that aligns with our values as New Zealanders who care about the land we live on.
In urban planning, incorporating green spaces can significantly impact community vibes. Parks, gardens, and green walls not only beautify a city but also foster community connections—a priority in places like Wellington and Auckland, where local councils aim to enhance livability. Creating these green patches encourages people to step outside, enjoy the outdoors, and connect with their surroundings.
Billions of shades of green
The human eye can see more shades of green than any other colour. This is an evolutionary trait handed down from our ancestors, who differentiated shades in order to know which plants to eat and which to avoid.
The combination of the colour's prevalence in nature, our biological sensitivity to its wavelengths, and its capacity to enhance our mood and productivity all contribute to it's magical powers.
Recognising the psychological and physical benefits of green spaces can motivate us to incorporate more of it into our work and leisure environments.
Next time you’re feeling stressed or unfocused, consider stepping outside for a breath of fresh air and a dose of green. After all, a little bit of nature might just be what you need to recharge and refocus.