Discover how making small changes to your physical surroundings can promote wellness. This talk helps participants understand how identifying and addressing stressors can unlock the key to nurturing emotional well-being in designed spaces. We will explore how stress manifests in the body and its impact on emotional states. Attendees will learn the potential of incorporating biophilic design elements to enhance well-being, reduce stress, and improve the human experience. Gain practical techniques to integrate biophilic and nature-inspired elements, creating environments that foster emotional well-being. We will ask questions discussing the connection to design in residential housing. Continuing Education Units (CEUS) submitted 1 hour in* Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI) Building Performance Institute (BPI) NonWholeHouse Submitted for American Institute of Architects - AIA (HSW) Certified Green Professional (NARI & CGP) Certified GreenHome Professional (CGHP) Pillar(s): Health, Materials, Place American Institute of Building Designers (AIBD) State Architect / Builder License may be applicable Building Science Institute (BSI) Verifier Society of American Registered Architects (SARA) IDCEC Speaker: Nicole Craanen Nicole's expertise in biophilic design is rooted in her background in commercial interior design and a Master’s degree in human ecology. As the founder of The Biophilic Design Institute, she consults on projects, and teaches professionals biophilic design through her new certification program. She holds influential roles on advisory boards for Living Future Europe and the WELL Building Standard and is also a trained yoga instructor and Nature & Forest Therapy Guide. Lessons Learned 1. Understand how stress affects both body and mind, and prepare to use biophilic design strategies to mitigate its impacts on individuals' well-being. 2. Identify and assess stressors in built environments, focusing on their effects on individuals' emotional and mental health. 3. Examine the restorative effects of nature on human health, emphasizing the role of nature in enhancing mood and reducing stress. 4. Integrate biophilic design principles and elements within built environments to effectively enhance quality of life and facilitate stress reduction.