Keeping Plants for Mental Health
Owning houseplants is linked to improved mental health through stress reduction, enhanced mood, and increased mindfulness. Plants can lower stress hormones like cortisol, improve focus, and create a more peaceful environment. The act of caring for plants provides a sense of purpose, responsibility, and a healthy distraction from negative thoughts. Some benefits of owning houseplants for mental health include the following.
Keeping plants can reduce stress and anxiety. Studies show that interacting with plants can lower blood pressure and cortisol levels, the body’s primary stress hormone. The calming effect of being in a green environment can lead to feelings of relaxation and peace.
For instance, Lisa is a corner-suite executive. While she may thrive in that role, when she gets home, being around her houseplants gives her peace. Touching their leaves and stems stimulates her brain in calming ways.
Tending plants can improve mood and reduce depression. Exposure to plants can boost your mood and increase feelings of optimism. Simply having plants in your home or office can help combat feelings of depression, especially during colder months when outdoor time is limited.
For instance, Ian has been suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a condition characterized by depression during the darker, colder months. He finds that growing flowers around his home, as well as the lighting he uses for their care, lifts his mood.
Having vegetation in one’s space can increase focus and cognitive function. Indoor plants can help with mental fatigue and improve focus. The scientific consensus is that even short periods spent with plants can enhance memory retention.
For instance, Charlie’s memory is becoming weaker. He has strong memories of tending a garden with his family, so he brings some of the same plants into his home, strengthening his connection with his loved ones.
Having plants around provides a sense of purpose and routine. Caring for living things provides a sense of responsibility and a reason to get up and be active. The routine of watering and caring for plants can act as a healthy distraction from worries and painful situations.
For instance, Lee has become physically disabled and must adjust to a new lifestyle. By choosing the right plants for them, they find that caring for houseplants lets them engage in gentle, but strengthening, physical activity.
Tending plants promotes mindfulness. The physical act of caring for a plant engages the senses, particularly touch, which can be a powerful tool for staying present and reducing anxiety.
For instance, Monica’s vision isn’t what it used to be. She finds that caring for plants brings her senses to life. The velvety quality of lamb’s ear, the firmness of African violets, and the smoothness of aloe vera give her much enjoyment.
Keeping plants enhances environmental wellness. A peaceful and healthy home environment is vital for overall wellness. Houseplants contribute to this by creating a more soothing and visually pleasing space.
For instance, Bob wants to improve his diet, but he doesn’t have space for a backyard garden and produce is expensive in his area. He does some research and creates a small-scale food garden including cherry tomatoes, microgreens, peppers, mint, and basil.
Botany also leverages the Biophilia Hypothesis. This hypothesis suggests humans have an innate, genetic connection to nature. Plants can fulfill this need, leading to positive effects on our mental and emotional state.
For instance, Theo has recently inherited a piece of open land. They have no plans to build or ranch, so they get their community together by starting a co-op garden that improves their access to fresh produce and helps educate people on the art of botany and crop husbandry.
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