Green space on the map of medical facilities. Do you know what it is about?

Friendly space - this term is very rarely associated with a medical facility. Cold, colourless spaces are characteristic of institutions where we seek specialist help. The Poznan Centre for Specialised Medical Services decided to break this pattern - thus creating an ecological patio for patients.

Florence Nightingale, who created modern nursing in the 19th century, pointed out that the variety of colours of objects that are presented to patients supports their recovery. What colour did POSUM choose? Green, of course!

Green, the colour of peace

In the second half of the 20th century, Roger Urlich proved that looking out of the window at green areas promotes convalescence and also reduces the need to take painkillers. Observing green plants - even for a few minutes - improves wellbeing. Surrounding oneself with plants and observing nature has a beneficial effect on heart function, muscle tension or the electrical activity of the brain.

What is biophilic design?

Biologist Edward O. Wilson in his publication Biophilia described the inextricable integration of humans and other creatures with nature. This gave rise to the concept of biophilic design, which is based on the idea of creating spaces in such a way as to ensure closeness to nature as much as possible. The main idea is to introduce elements of nature into enclosed spaces.

Ecological space on the map of Poznań

The Poznan Centre for Specialist Medical Services has filled its space with green plants - resulting in an ecological patio. The space was created, among other things, thanks to the commitment of Poznan residents. It was they who got involved in the collection of potted flowers - during which they could give away flowers they no longer needed or which no longer fit in their homes. It is worth mentioning that the flower collection campaign was also aimed at promoting the idea of "I don't throw away, I give a second life to things".

The patio space has been designed in such a way that it can promote ecological ideas as much as possible. The space has been filled with green plants, but also with recycled objects.

Green patio at POSUM

To catch their breath, visitors to the POSUM can rest on benches made of old clothes and plastic. The space has been given a splash of colour by the slogans on the concrete slabs, which contain interesting facts about the correct segregation of waste.

It is a space designed for everyone who uses the centre's services. Interestingly, the youngest patients of the patio can influence the look of this space. How specifically? Well, they can leave their chalk drawings on the boards that hang on the walls of the patio.

On the green patio of POSUM, you can not only read a book or relax for a while - sometimes you can also stretch. POSUM also organises workshops for residents at this location, such as White Saturday, during which Poznań residents could take part in yoga workshops, or its latest project, the Senior Citizens' Health Academy, where participants will educate themselves in a green environment. The environmental education portal Edu4Eco.pl was also involved in the patio project.