Where there is no water there can be no life. Leonardo da Vinci already knew this very well, to whom the phrase “Water is the driving force of Nature” is attributed.
These words reflect the importance that Leonardo attributed to water as an essential and dynamic element present in the natural world. We know that Leonardo was deeply interested in the study of water, not only for its vital role in ecosystems, but also for its kinetic energy potential and engineering applications.
Water has always been a source of inspiration for humanity, a natural element capable of arousing deep emotions with the power to regenerate the body and mind. Our irrepressible passion for water manifests itself through the desire to immerse ourselves in this refreshing liquid, to observe its movement and listen to its relaxing sound. From ancient literature to the present day, many emblematic figures have exalted the profound bond between men and water. With its ability to take on ever-changing forms and interact with light and the surrounding environment, it continues to fascinate numerous artists, writers and scholars even today. Its aesthetic and symbolic qualities have made it an unfailing protagonist in all forms of art.
The fascination of water
The captivating allure of water is a complex and multidimensional phenomenon, deeply rooted in our biology. It also concerns the psychological sphere, our evolutionary history, our cognitions and emotions. Water is not only a vital necessity, but also a source of beauty and aesthetic contemplation. Its presence has the power to calm us, renew us and connect us with our deepest essence, making it an irreplaceable element.
From a biological point of view, liquid water has always been an essential condition for life and survival and, since ancient times, our ancestors settled near rivers, lakes and seas to secure vital resources such as food and drinking water. The waterways also provided valid protection from predators that could hardly cross the rivers. Furthermore, they could facilitate the transport of people and goods.
In reference to the psychological sphere, water has a calming and restorative effect and creates moments of play, joy and aesthetic enjoyment. The sound of running water, such as the rustle of a stream or the sound of sea waves, can reduce stress and induce a state of deep relaxation.
The image of running water has stratified in the human psyche as a restorative element. This phenomenon has deep roots in our evolutionary history. The biophilia hypothesis, proposed by the biologist Edward O. Wilson, claims that human beings have an innate desire to connect with Nature, and the water element represents one of the most essential, attractive and above all beneficial aspects, perhaps even more than vegetation.
Cognitively, water stimulates the mind in unique ways. The movement and reflections of water can capture our attention. Aquatic environments offer a rich panorama of visual, auditory and even tactile stimuli.
Emotionally, water is often associated with positive memories and moments of happiness. Many people fondly remember seaside holidays, trips and childhood games at the lake or simple walks along a river. These memories can evoke a sense of nostalgia and connection. Water can also represent a sort of emotional refuge, a place where we feel safe and protected.
Our preference for moving water
Many of us find moving water, such as mountain streams, rivers and ocean waves, more attractive than standing water. This is linked to reasons which are all based in our evolution. Moving water tends to be cleaner and fresher, while stagnant water can accumulate impurities and become a habitat for insects and bacteria. Even our distant ancestors already knew this very well. The instinct to prefer running water could be a survival mechanism that has taken root in each of us.
The flow and constant non-rhythmic sound of running water creates a dynamic spectacle that captures our attention and gives us relaxation. This continuous movement also symbolizes the perpetual flow of life, evolution that never stops and change, something that comforts us and gives us hope.
Ancestral knowledge
For our ancestors, recognizing the presence or absence of running water in a place meant being able to guarantee the survival and progress of their lineage. Settlements were usually located near water sources, and the sound and sight of running water probably often accompanied individuals’ daily activities. Many ancient civilizations developed along river banks, which provided not only vital resources but also a sense of well-being and protection. The Romans, for example, built aqueducts to bring fresh water from mountains and springs to urban settlements, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of the importance of running water for public health.
These ancestral and intrinsic connections explain why, even today, we seek water as one of our favourite places. Evidence of this is the great desire for water of many citizens who every year go to seaside places scattered throughout the world. We are willing to spend more for hotel rooms with a sea or lake view.
The water element in Biophilic Design
Progressively, human civilizations have learned to manage water increasingly effectively as a physical resource, but they are less accustomed to using it as a psychological resource as well. Water, as an element of the built environment, can play a significant role in enhancing well-being and quality of both living and working spaces. Biophilic Design, which integrates natural elements into the built environment to promote psychological and physiological well-being, suggests integrating water features such as streams, fountains, ponds, small waterfalls, aquariums, and water mirrors, which can have a calming effect and reduce stress. The sight of a body of water can enhance the sense of connection with Nature. The sound of flowing water or nearby waves (either natural sound or artificially reproduced) can create a pleasant environment and help partially mask annoying noises in specific spaces. Having the opportunity to touch water, as in a garden with a small pond or fountain, can enhance sensory experience and direct contact with the natural world. Moving water introduces dynamic and variable elements into the built environment, which can be stimulating and captivating for occupants. Additionally, water features can help maintain an optimal level of humidity in the air, thereby improving air quality. Integrating water into artificial spaces requires not only proper design but also well-defined maintenance plans to ensure it continues to provide its benefits without causing issues over time.
We at Verde Profilo know well the value of water as a precious resource: it is essential for our plants and for them to thrive every day. This is why we are committed to including it in our projects with the care and attention it deserves, because a happy plant also makes our environment happy and consequently all of us!