The world's most relaxing room

Psychologist Professor Richard Wiseman has designed and constructed a large-scale multi-media space that aims to calm even the most stressed out of minds.

I visited the usual space at the university’s campus in Hatfield to experience the relaxing combinations of colours, sounds and smells.

The chill-out room features lavender-scented cushions, matting, soft green lighting, artificial blue skies, and the soothing tones of delicate music.

Creator Professor Wiseman said: “The pace of modern-day life, credit crunch, and financial crisis is making many people feel very stressed and so we have created this space to help them relax.

“Research suggests that the subdued green light enhances the production of dopamine in the brain and provide a calming sensation. In addition, the artificial blue sky helps create a mild form of sensory deprivation that will help them turn their attention inward and distract them away from daily stress.”

I was unconvinced at first but after lying down for just ten minutes I felt considerably calmer and my heart rate dropped from around 90 to 65 - a sure sign that I was chilled out.

The music has been specially composed by the university’s Professor of Music Tim Blinko.

Professor Blinko said: “I was asked to create a piece of music with a slow and distinct rhythm, low frequency notes, and no sudden changes in tempo.

“I have completely re-written a piece especially for this project. It features a solo soprano voice, chosen for the soothing properties of the human voice, together with a Tibetan singing bowl, used in meditation and a string ensemble."

A few years ago Professor Wiseman headed an international study examining walking speeds around the world, and discovered that people are living more fast-paced and stressful lives than ever before.

It is hoped that the room will help motivate different groups of people to combat stress, including, students facing exams and businesses wishing to lower their employees’ stress levels.