Physiological and psychological relaxation effects from palmar contact with a wooden conference table: a randomized crossover study in an office conference room

Abstract The effects of palmar contact with wood on human physiology have been investigated in laboratory settings, whereas evidence from experiments conducted in actual office conference rooms remains limited. We performed a within-subject crossover study evaluating physiological and psychological responses to palmar contact with an oil-finished Makaba ( Betula maximowicziana ) wooden conference table in an office conference room. Among the 26 male university students enrolled, data from 25 were analyzed. After rest, the participants placed their right palm on the wooden table or a white melamine laminated table for 90 s. Physiological indices included prefrontal cortex activity (assessed as oxyhemoglobin [oxy-Hb] concentration using near-infrared spectroscopy) and autonomic nervous system activity (derived from heart rate variability). Psychological states were evaluated using a modified semantic differential (SD) method and the short-form Profile of Mood States, Second Edition (POMS 2) questionnaire. Compared with the control, wooden table contact significantly reduced left and right prefrontal oxy-Hb concentrations, but did not affect autonomic indices. SD ratings of comfort, relaxation, and naturalness were significantly higher for the wooden table. Furthermore, POMS 2 scores for anger–hostility, confusion–bewilderment, tension–anxiety, and total mood disturbance decreased. while friendliness increased. Thus, touching an oil-finished Makaba table in an office setting induces physiological and psychological relaxation.