The Place of Insight – The Effects of Landscape Feng Shui,
Aleppo Pine, Rosemary, and Cicadas on the Psyche

Introduction

We often have people visiting us who describe the place as magical. They experience deep relaxation and inspiration, along with a completely different sense of time. We did not want to settle for simply accepting that the place has these effects—we wanted to understand why. That is how the following analysis came to be.

In natural landscapes, various elements—from terrain profiles to plant scents and animal sounds—often work together and influence our psyche. This study explores the four natural elements found at PACHACAMAC in interaction:

– Landscape Feng Shui with Turtle, Tiger, Dragon, and Snake (a traditional doctrine for ideal terrain form),
– Aleppo Pines (Pinus halepensis) and their aromatic terpenes,
– Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) and its scents, and
– the cicada Cicada orni and its distinctive sounds.

Each element is examined individually—on psychological, neurobiological, and perceptual levels—along with relevant scientific findings. Afterwards, we analyze how these four factors, in combination, influence emotional, mental, and even spiritual well-being. Seasonal changes are also considered, such as bloom times, fluctuations in essential oil concentrations, and cicada activity throughout the year. Special attention is paid to the topographical orientation in the spirit of classical Feng Shui: a valley that opens to the west, with natural barriers in the north—symbolically represented by the "Tiger" and the "Turtle."

The goal is to provide a scientifically grounded overview that combines traditional concepts (like Feng Shui) with current studies on terpenes and psychoacoustic effects. The following sections present the four elements individually, before addressing their combined effects and seasonal influences.

1. Landscape Feng Shui: Turtle, Tiger, Dragon, and Snake

The teachings of Feng Shui describe ideal landscape forms through symbolic animals: Turtle (at the back), Dragon (left), Tiger (right), and sometimes Snake (in front, alternatively Phoenix). In our context—a valley opening westward and protected by elevations in the north—these terms represent actual topographical features. The "protective Turtle" corresponds to a higher mountain or hill range at the back (here east/north), the Tiger to a lateral barrier in the northwest, and "Dragon" and "Snake" symbolize the slightly lower boundary and opening at the front (west).

Psychological Perception of Terrain Form

Studies have shown that people feel most comfortable in environments that offer both shelter and a sense of overview. This matches the Feng Shui ideal: a back shielded by the "Turtle" (e.g., a mountain at your back) conveys protection and calm—comparable to a natural "refuge." At the same time, the open valley side at the front (analogous to the "Snake" or Phoenix) provides a clear view—a sense of openness and prospect. The side hills ("Dragon" and "Tiger") frame the place and create the feeling of an enclosed space without blocking the forward view. From an evolutionary psychology perspective, the Prospect-Refuge Theory (Appleton 1975) explains the appeal of such environments: a place with both retreat possibilities and a view is subconsciously perceived as safe and advantageous. Experimental studies confirm that a balanced combination of outlook and back protection increases the sense of security in humans. In other words: a landscape that follows the Feng Shui pattern with a Turtle (protection) and an open front side can reduce perceived stress and enhance well-being, as it aligns with our archetypal need for safety and orientation.

Neurobiological and Emotional Effects of the Environment

These perceived qualities can also be measured in their effects on the psyche and physiology. When people feel secure in a well-structured landscape, it typically triggers relaxation responses in the autonomic nervous system. The parasympathetic "rest" branch becomes more active: heart rate and stress hormone levels drop while relaxation dominates. A natural environment with gentle hills, abundant greenery, and open skies also promotes positive emotions like calm and contentment. Simply viewing natural landscapes has been shown to reduce cortisol levels and blood pressure compared to urban environments. Neurobiologically, this may be due to the brain showing less alertness in such surroundings—the "protective mechanisms" of the landscape (high back, side protection) signal safety, which reduces amygdala activity (fear centers) and instead supports calmer theta or alpha brain waves (similar to meditative states). Furthermore, an open view (valley opening to the west) allows the eye to gaze into the distance, which is mentally perceived as relieving—in contrast to confined visual fields, which can evoke feelings of constriction. Studies show that limited visibility increases stress and discomfort, while visual openness encourages movement and even joy in exploration. In our scenario, one enjoys the westward view in the evening, often accompanied by warm light and sunsets—stimuli that tend to have a calming effect.

Perceptual Aspects and Classical Doctrine

Classical Feng Shui also proposes an energetic aspect: the configured landscape channels the flow of Qi energy optimally—it accumulates through the barriers (Tiger, Turtle) and can gently stream into the valley through the opening (Snake) without being dispersed. From today's scientific viewpoint, this concept aligns with the sum of sensory impressions that exert a harmonious effect on us. The symmetrical yet non-monotonous design (a higher "Dragon" hill on the left, a slightly lower "Tiger" hill on the right) creates a visual sense of harmony and balance, which the brain registers as aesthetically pleasant and calming. Humans prefer moderate complexity and structure in their environment—neither complete uniformity nor chaos. The Feng Shui animal constellation delivers precisely this soothing structure: different heights and forms (Dragon vs. Tiger) convey a natural Yin-Yang balance, while the Turtle and the open Snake simultaneously symbolize stability and freedom.

Overall, a landscape following the "Turtle, Dragon, Tiger, Snake" pattern can emotionally convey a sense of safety, security, and confidence, mentally ease concentration (through reduced unconscious alertness), and perceptually be experienced as beautiful and harmonious. It forms the stage upon which the following natural elements—Pine, Rosemary, and Cicada—can fully unfold their effects.

2. Aleppo Pine (Pinus halepensis) and its Terpenes

The Aleppo pine is an evergreen tree native to the Mediterranean region, known for its resinous scent. Forests of Pinus halepensis emit an intense terpene aroma—volatile plant compounds from resin and needles—especially on hot days. The main components include α-pinene and Δ³-carene, two monoterpenes also found in other coniferous trees. Additionally, Aleppo pine oils contain β-myrcene, β-pinene, and sesquiterpenes like caryophyllene. These scent compounds serve the tree as protection against pests and heat—but in humans, they influence the nervous system in various ways.

Psychological and Neurobiological Effects of α-Pinene and Δ³-Carene

α-Pinene is a primary scent molecule in pine resin and has shown notable calming effects in studies. Even brief inhalation can measurably shift the autonomic nervous system toward relaxation: in a controlled study, α-pinene significantly increased parasympathetic activity (high-frequency HRV) and lowered heart rate. This indicates a physiological relaxation response. Subjectively, participants rated the pine scent as "pleasant" and felt more comfortable afterward compared to odorless air. Alpha-pinene likely acts through olfactory receptors directly on limbic brain regions (amygdala, hypothalamus), modulating neurotransmitter systems. Animal studies support this: mice exposed to α-pinene exhibited anxiolytic and sleep-promoting behaviors, likely via binding to GABAA receptors—similar to tranquilizers. Researchers confirmed that α-pinene acts as a positive modulator at benzodiazepine sites, enhancing the inhibitory GABA effect. The same applies to Δ³-carene, another dominant pine terpene, which has shown anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anxiolytic properties. Together, α-pinene and Δ³-carene can promote a state of calm alertness—relaxing and sleep-extending in tired individuals, while still supporting focus at moderate doses.

Pine scent compounds are also attributed with anti-inflammatory effects that can indirectly enhance well-being. For example, α-pinene inhibits specific inflammatory mediators in the brain and may have neuroprotective effects. This is relevant because chronic stress is often associated with low-grade inflammation—pine phytoncides may counteract this, contributing to stress reduction on a neurobiological level.

Effects on Mood and Mental Performance

A walk through Aleppo pine forests—known from the concept of forest bathing—lifts mood and reduces stress. Field studies have shown that time spent in the forest (compared to urban environments) increases parasympathetic activity and decreases stress markers in most participants. Lee et al. (2014), for example, found in a study with 625 people that about 79% experienced an increase in "rest-and-digest" activity and a decrease in sympathetic nervous system activity. Subjective reports align: forest visitors often feel calmer, refreshed, and less anxious after being immersed in pine scent. Interestingly, some studies also show cognitive stimulation from forest air: participants solved mental tasks more efficiently after exposure to forest scents. This may be linked to the mildly euphoric effect of low-dose terpenes—similar to how fresh air can generally invigorate us.

Anecdotally, pine scent is often described as "clear" and "uplifting," influencing mood. Neuropsychologically, the scent may trigger positive memories (such as vacations in Mediterranean forests), thereby enhancing mood. Additionally, deeper breathing in the forest—due to clean, fragrant air—increases brain oxygenation, countering fatigue. Altogether, the Aleppo pine, with its greenery and scent, fosters a calm yet alert mental state: stress and anxiety are eased while attention and mood remain stable or even improve.

Perception and Sensory Experience

On a sensory level, the Aleppo pine appeals to smell, sight, and touch. The evergreen needles visually soothe—the sight of plants and the color green alone has been shown to reduce stress (as explained by the biophilia hypothesis). The rough bark and pleasant scent when touched or tapped for resin offer tactile and olfactory stimuli that connect us with nature. Inhaling the spicy pine scent, especially on hot summer days when the resin vaporizes, creates an intense nature experience that many people find "liberating." Pine aromas are not overwhelmingly floral but rather sharp-fresh, leading to a clear perception that supports mental order. In aromatherapy, pine oil is considered grounding and strengthening—helping to "gather the mind" in states of distraction.

In summary, the Aleppo pine contributes a fragrant atmosphere that is neurobiologically relaxing and psychologically stabilizing. It is thus a central factor in the well-being experienced in the described landscape—especially in synergy with the next element: rosemary, which complements and expands the fragrance spectrum and its effects.

3. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) – Fragrance and Mental Effects

Rosemary is an aromatic evergreen shrub commonly found growing under pines in the Mediterranean. With its needle-like leaves and bluish-violet flowers (typically blooming in late spring), it enriches the landscape both visually and olfactorily. Rosemary exudes a strong, camphor-like fresh scent. The main components responsible are essential oils, particularly 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol), as well as camphor, borneol, and smaller amounts of α-pinene. Traditionally, rosemary fragrance is associated with mental stimulation—students in ancient Greece wore rosemary wreaths to enhance memory. In Shakespeare’s *Hamlet*, it is said: “There’s rosemary, that’s for remembrance.” Modern research supports this folklore: rosemary has been shown to influence memory and cognition.

Cognitive Effects of Rosemary and 1,8-Cineole

Scientific studies show that even inhaling rosemary oil can improve cognitive performance. In a placebo-controlled study with 20 participants, diffused rosemary scent in the room led to significantly better results in memory and math tests. Interestingly, the measured concentration of 1,8-cineole in participants’ blood correlated with performance: the higher the cineole level, the faster and more accurately the tests were solved. This monoterpene thus acts pharmacologically—similar to a mild stimulant or nootropic—on the brain. Mechanistically, cineole has been shown to inhibit acetylcholinesterase. This slows the breakdown of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which is essential for learning and memory. Many Alzheimer’s medications are based on this principle. In this sense, rosemary delivers natural "memory agents" in low doses through the air. Besides memory, rosemary also influences alertness and attention. Participants in scent studies often report feeling more alert but slightly less mentally calm compared to calming scents (e.g., lavender). Indeed, high cineole blood levels were found to correlate slightly with reduced subjective calmness—i.e., people felt more awake but a little less "at ease." Thus, rosemary seems to act more as a stimulant than a relaxant. However, this stimulation is not equivalent to nervous restlessness—it is a clear, focused activation. EEG readings indicate that rosemary scent increases beta waves in the brain (associated with attention).

Rosemary can also have a positive impact on mood. One study found that inhaling rosemary and lavender oil increased perceived freshness in young adults and improved continuity of thought. Physical effects were also observed: rosemary scent slightly raised blood pressure and heart rate—unlike lavender, which lowers them—matching its invigorating nature. Rosemary is even discussed in phytotherapy as a mild antidepressant: an extract showed effects on monoaminergic systems in animal models similar to standard antidepressants. All of this suggests that rosemary gives the brain a "kick," though in natural environments this is buffered by parallel relaxing influences (pine scent, landscape calm).

Impact on Emotional State and Perception

The fresh, camphor-like scent of rosemary can help balance emotional fluctuations. It is uplifting in cases of exhaustion or mild depression, and can also promote mental clarity during stressful moments. In one study, individuals exposed to rosemary aroma felt less anxious and more mentally organized. This aligns with traditional uses: rosemary is recommended in aromatherapy for mental fatigue and mild anxiety due to its stabilizing qualities. Its scent has a strong recognition factor; it is often associated with Mediterranean vacations, sunshine, and cooking, triggering positive associations. Such conditioned olfactory memories are powerful emotional triggers—known as the Proust effect. A hint of rosemary can mentally transport us to relaxed summer evenings and spontaneously evoke well-being.

From a perceptual standpoint, rosemary also provides visual and tactile stimuli: the plant’s needle-like leaves and delicate flowers attract insects (bees, butterflies), bringing life to the scene. The contrast between the gray-green foliage and purple blossoms pleases the eye, especially in spring, subtly signaling fertility and natural vitality. The scent is perceived as clear, medicinal-herbal—some describe a slight “burn” in the nose at high concentrations (due to camphor), which simultaneously creates a sensation of freed airways. This sensory stimulation can foster the subjective feeling of being able to “breathe deeply,” contributing to stress relief.

Synergy with the Aleppo Pine

In combination with pine scent, an intriguing balance arises: pine terpenes (α-pinene, Δ³-carene) calm the body, while rosemary terpenes (cineole, camphor) stimulate the mind. This combination—naturally occurring in Mediterranean garrigue landscapes—may promote an ideal mental state: relaxed yet alert. In traditional European herbalism, pine and rosemary oils are indeed used together to enhance concentration while also promoting relaxation (e.g., in bath blends that calm and invigorate simultaneously). Neurobiologically, their mechanisms complement each other: parasympathetic activation and GABA modulation from pine, paired with cholinergic stimulation from rosemary. The result is a feeling of being “fully present” without inner tension—a state conducive to creative activity, meditation, or simply savoring the moment.

4. Cicadas (Cicada orni) – Sound and Psychoacoustic Effects

On hot summer days, cicada calls fill the air of Mediterranean landscapes with an unmistakable song: a persistent, buzzing chirring sound, mostly produced by the common cicada (Cicada orni). These insects prefer pine trees and generate loud sounds using vibrating membranes (tymbal organs), reaching volumes of up to 90–100 dB. From a distance, however, the sound is perceived as a continuous background hum. For many people, the chirping of cicadas is the "sound of summer"—it instantly evokes a feeling of heat, vacation, and southern ease. But how exactly does this sound affect our psyche and perception?

Psychoacoustic Characteristics of Cicada Sounds

Cicada song is characterized by high-pitched tones and rhythmic patterns. Cicada orni, for instance, produces rapid tone pulses in the 4–7 kHz frequency range, which blend into a humming tone. This spectral noise resembles white noise but features natural fluctuations and pauses. Such monotonous, consistent sounds can lead the brain into a relaxed yet wakeful state. Many people find ongoing natural sounds—whether ocean waves, rain, or insect chirps—soothing, as they contain no sudden changes that demand attention. The cicada chorus forms an auditory “carpet” that can mask and filter out other disturbing noises. This creates a sense of seclusion and privacy: one feels enveloped by the sound of nature.

Studies on the effects of natural sounds generally show stress-reducing and mood-enhancing effects: nature sounds improve emotional well-being and reduce stress and anger compared to silence or urban noise. A meta-analysis confirmed that nature sounds enhance health, increase positive feelings, and reduce stress. While water and bird sounds scored highest, insect and wind sounds are also part of the natural soundscape that has a calming effect. The consistent cicada tone likely contributes to a reduction in stress hormones by dampening sympathetic nervous system activity. Some research suggests that listening to forest sounds (including insects) can lower heart rate and blood pressure and increase parasympathetic tone. Furthermore, according to Attention Restoration Theory, nature sounds promote “soft fascination”—a gentle, effortless form of attention that allows the fatigued directed attention system to rest. The chirping of cicadas is a perfect example: it is interesting enough to be perceived as pleasant but does not require active listening or analysis. This allows the mind to wander and regenerate in the background.

Effect on Emotion and Mind

Emotionally, cicada song can evoke feelings of longing and tranquility. Many people associate the sound with holiday memories, midday sun, and siesta. Cicadas typically chirp most loudly during the hottest part of the day when people and animals take breaks. The brain may have learned to associate cicada sounds with "rest time." In fact, many individuals report that the monotonous chirping feels sleep-inducing or hypnotic—similar to the hum of a fan or the nighttime chirp of crickets. In rural Mediterranean regions, the sound has long served as the background music of summer, eventually fading from conscious notice while quietly shaping the atmosphere. This familiarity creates a sense of security. Just as we may find raindrops on the window comforting, cicada song conveys a sense of "all is well—it's a hot summer day, just relax." In terms of concentration, cicada noise can paradoxically be both helpful and distracting—it depends on volume and individual perception. A small study in Indiana (USA) examined cognitive performance during exposure to loud cicada calls: participants who found the sound unpleasant performed worse, while those who liked it tended to perform better and more quickly. This highlights the role of personal preference. If perceived as pleasant, the sound may enhance performance (likely through reduced stress and improved mood); if perceived as noise, it may be disruptive. At moderate intensity—as is typical in nature, where distance and vegetation buffer the sound—the cicada song becomes more of a soft background hum. In this mode, it likely supports mental restoration, much like other natural elements.

The sound can also carry spiritual or poetic meaning: in some cultures, cicadas symbolize slowness, summer, and transience (the adult insects live only one summer). Their continuous song can resemble a mantra of nature that supports meditative states. Some people even use recordings of cicadas or crickets as sleep aids or for meditation, similar to white noise. Psychoacoustically, there are parallels: monotonous high-frequency sounds can guide the brain into alpha states, which accompany relaxation and light drowsiness. Overall, cicada song functions as an auditory anti-stress agent within the interplay of natural elements: it creates acoustic comfort, masks disruptive noise, and harmonizes the listener with the slow rhythm of the summer landscape.

5. Synergistic Effects of the Four Elements on Well-Being

When the described elements—landscape form, pine scent, rosemary aroma, and cicada sound—come together, as in our Mediterranean valley, they create a holistic experiential environment that engages all senses and layers of the psyche. Each element alone already contributes positively to well-being; in combination, they amplify one another and generate a sum of effects that exceeds the impact of the individual components.

Multisensory Stimulation and Stress Reduction

The environment simultaneously engages visual, olfactory, and auditory senses, creating a complete nature experience. Research on stress shows that multisensory impressions from nature are particularly effective: they can activate our innate “stress brakes” and shift the body into a regeneration mode. In our scenario, the visual landscape (topography, pine greenery, rosemary blossoms, and panoramic sky) provides immediate mental relief—the brain registers a “safe, natural environment” and reduces stress hormone release. The scents of pine and rosemary travel through the nose directly to the limbic system, modulating emotion and autonomic functions: pine slows heart rate and lowers blood pressure, while rosemary brightens mood and cognition. At the same time, the cicada chorus bathes the auditory field in a uniform soundscape that soothes the auditory system and keeps disruptive noises at bay.

This simultaneous activation of multiple senses reduces the likelihood that individual intrusive thoughts or stimuli dominate—one becomes fully immersed in the atmosphere. This can foster a deep state of relaxation in which the body regenerates efficiently. Studies on “forest bathing” and nature therapy demonstrate broad health effects: lower cortisol levels, a more stable nervous system, reduced anxiety, and improved mood after combined nature experiences. The elements in our scenario encompass many of these therapeutic factors—one might call it a Mediterranean forest bath.

Emotional, Mental, and Spiritual Dimensions

On an emotional level, the combination of the four natural elements fosters a sense of calm and a positive mood. The previously described mechanisms—security from the landscape, relaxation from scents, stimulation from rosemary, and comfort from sounds—together create a balanced emotional state. Fear and tension are reduced by the calming elements (turtle/tiger shelter, pine phytoncides, cicada drone), while lack of motivation or rumination is countered by stimulating components (open vistas, rosemary cineole, sunlight). Many people report a noticeable uplift in mood after spending time in similar Mediterranean environments—feeling “carefree-happy” or “internally calm and content.” This is supported by research: nature-based multisensory experiences demonstrably improve mood and reduce negative feelings such as anger, anxiety, and sadness.

On a cognitive level, the interplay of elements enhances both mental performance (attention, working memory) and the creative or restorative aspect of thinking. Rosemary has been proven to improve memory and attention span, while the relaxed baseline created by the landscape, pine, and cicadas encourages unstructured thought patterns that support creative insight. Moreover, directed attention is restored in such an environment—according to Attention Restoration Theory—because the impressions are “softly fascinating” and don’t demand cognitive effort. After some time in this atmosphere, people often feel clearer, more focused, and simultaneously refreshed. Studies show that spending time in nature improves concentration and working memory, even without engaging in specific mental exercises. The earlier mentioned balance between relaxation and alertness (through pine and rosemary) also contributes: the nervous system settles into an optimal range—neither overstimulated (as in a busy city) nor understimulated (as in monotonous surroundings). In this flow state, one can engage in intellectual activities or simply gaze meditatively into the greenery—both are experienced as nourishing.

Lastly, the combination of the four natural elements also touches the spiritual dimension of well-being. By spirituality we mean a sense of connection, meaning, and inner peace that transcends everyday life. A harmonious natural environment can strongly encourage such a feeling. In our setting, many people report a deep connection to nature: the centuries-old pine behind them (the Turtle) conveys permanence and grounding, the wide sky opening westward invites a gaze into the infinite (transcendence), while rosemary and cicadas embody the pulsing life around us. This constellation invites self-reflection—one comes to rest and contemplates life, often with new clarity. Research confirms that time in nature enhances self-awareness and reflection and contributes to a stronger self-concept. At the same time, a sense of connection to something greater grows: one feels like part of the world and safe within a meaningful framework. Many people report increased gratitude, humility, or a sense of “oneness” with their surroundings after intense nature experiences—all aspects of spiritual well-being. Naturalist and author John Muir wrote: “In the silence of wild nature, the joy is complete.” Our four elements create precisely such a silent, yet meaningful environment in which one can find inner peace and presence.

Thus, the interplay of landscape Feng Shui, Aleppo pine, rosemary, and cicadas has a holistic effect: emotionally calming and uplifting, mentally restorative and clarifying, spiritually connecting and elevating. These effects intensify over the course of the year, depending on the seasonal expression of each element—which will be addressed in the next section.

6. Seasonal Variations in Effect

The described Mediterranean landscape is not a static system—seasonal cycles alter the expression of the four elements, and with them, the nuanced effects on human experience. The following section analyzes how these effects shift throughout the year, with particular attention to blooming periods, terpene content, and cicada activity. The table provides an overview:

Spring: In spring, the landscape awakens. Rosemary blooms and fills the air with its floral-spicy aroma, while temperatures remain moderate—ideal for breathing deeply without overheating. Without cicadas, the soundscape has a quiet quality, interrupted only by birdsong. This season is likely to have a mood-lifting and activating effect: the abundance of scents (high cineole content before flowering) and colors stimulates neurotransmitters (serotonin, dopamine through positive stimuli), and people often feel motivated and refreshed, yet calm due to the ordered and peaceful surroundings. It is the time of new beginnings, often accompanied by optimism and a sense of initiative.

Summer: At the peak of summer, the nature experience reaches maximum intensity. The pine forest emits a strong resinous scent—at 30+°C, pines can release large amounts of monoterpenes (measurements show up to ~35 µg/g·h in summer heat). Rosemary has finished blooming, but the heat concentrates the remaining oils in the leaves. Simultaneously, a loud cicada chorus fills the air. This multisensory flood can be both euphoric and invigorating: long daylight hours and warmth increase the production of mood-enhancing messengers (e.g., vitamin D synthesis, endorphins during walks). On the other hand, the intense heat calls for rest (siesta), which is supported by the monotonous hum of cicadas—people are more likely to lie in the shade and let their minds wander. Thus, summer creates a unique mix of high activity and deep relaxation: energized in the morning/evening (from light and scent), drowsy midday (due to heat and sound). Psychologically, this can be very balancing—stress has little room because the natural rhythm of the day sets the pace. Note: if someone perceives the cicada sound as noise, summer may feel overwhelming. But typically, people adapt quickly to it. Overall, summer is dominated by joy, sensuality, and a hint of laziness—ideal for mental recovery.

Autumn: Early autumn combines warm days with cooler nights. The stimulating element (cicadas) fades away, and nature becomes quieter. Scents are still present but milder. This season promotes contemplation. People perceive the landscape more consciously, precisely because it becomes more tranquil. Walks through the pines are now often accompanied by the scent of dry needles and soil—an earthy tone that can evoke nostalgia and calm. Rosemary may bloom lightly again and adds subtle fragrance accents. Emotionally, a peaceful mood often arises, sometimes tinged with wistfulness (the farewell of summer). Nature supports letting go and reflection. Neurobiologically, overall stimulation decreases, allowing for deep relaxation. People can use this time to recharge, take stock, and prepare internally for winter—carried by the still protective structure of the landscape.

Winter: In winter, life largely comes to rest. The evergreen scenery (pine, rosemary leaves) prevents a barren feeling—a key psychological factor, since plain gray-brown tones in winter can dampen the mood. Instead, the greenery offers a sense of shelter. Scents are minimal, and the landscape is quiet. This low-stimulation environment can be deeply restorative for modern people who are often overstimulated. Now, the landscape’s Feng Shui element takes center stage: hills and trees protect from cold northern winds (“Turtle” in the north), while the valley opens westward, allowing in mild evening sun even during winter. Psychologically, this creates a sense of security in stillness. There is time for introspection—whether on winter walks or gazing from a window onto the peaceful scene. Studies show that even the view of nature through a window reduces stress and supports healing. In winter, when people spend more time indoors, the pine-rosemary valley becomes a reliable anchor: nature is out there, resting, conveying a feeling of “everything in its natural rhythm.” For some, the quiet time can also feel lonely or melancholic—this depends on the person. Overall, the winter aspect supports resilience: one feels protected by the landscape until spring returns.

7. Conclusion

The four natural elements discussed—the balancing landscape form (Feng Shui: Turtle, Dragon, Tiger, Snake), the Aleppo pine with its calming greenery and resin scent, the rosemary with its invigorating aroma, and the cicada with its summer night song—each positively influence the human psyche. Scientific findings support traditional assumptions: a harmonious terrain increases the sense of security, plant terpenes like α-pinene, Δ³-carene, and 1,8-cineole produce neurobiological effects ranging from relaxation to cognitive stimulation, and natural soundscapes measurably reduce stress and improve mood.

Even more impressive is the interaction of these elements. In a landscape where all of them are present, their effects combine into a holistic influence on body, mind, and soul. People experience less stress, more stable emotions, enhanced mental clarity, and a stronger sense of connectedness. Classical Feng Shui provides a vivid model that aligns remarkably well with modern concepts such as the Prospect-Refuge Theory and biophilia.

Additionally, the seasonal cycle adds dynamism to these interactions: depending on the time of year, calming or stimulating components take precedence, allowing nature to affect us in different ways—invigorating in spring, sensually decelerating in summer, reflective in autumn, and introverted and sheltering in winter. This natural variability can offer the psyche both stability and orientation throughout the year and prevents monotony. In conclusion, a Mediterranean valley that opens to the west, protected by “Tiger and Turtle” in the north, enlivened by Aleppo pines, rosemary, and cicadas, creates an optimal environment for human well-being. Modern people who immerse themselves in such surroundings (e.g., through time in nature, “forest bathing,” or nature-inspired garden design) can benefit significantly—through improved mood, reduced stress responses, enhanced mental clarity, or a sense of spiritual fulfillment.

The insights presented here combine traditional wisdom with current science and demonstrate: the healing power of nature is rooted in tangible, measurable influences—from molecular terpenes to landscape geometry. Its full effect unfolds when we perceive and engage with all these elements as a whole. The landscape invites us to be fully present with all our senses: leaning against a rock (the Turtle), gazing into the wide valley, breathing in the scent of pine and rosemary, and listening to the distant chirping of cicadas—an experience proven to calm the body and mind while uplifting the soul with new strength.