The Great Plant Debate
The Psychological Benefits of Caring for Houseplants
Houseplants and Mental Health
The psychological benefits of caring for houseplants are numerous and well-documented. Studies have shown that interacting with plants can reduce stress, increase feelings of happiness and well-being, and improve overall mental health. In addition, caring for houseplants can provide a sense of accomplishment and purpose, as well as promote mindfulness and relaxation.
One of the main reasons that plants have such a positive effect on our mental health is that they provide a connection to nature. In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, it’s easy to feel disconnected from the natural world. However, caring for a houseplant allows us to bring a small piece of nature into our homes and daily lives. This connection to nature has been shown to have a number of mental health benefits, including reduced stress and improved mood.
Nurturing and tending to houseplants can be a great sense of accomplishment and purpose. Watering and caring for a plant requires a small amount of effort, but it can be incredibly rewarding to see a plant thrive and grow under our care. This sense of accomplishment can be especially beneficial for those who are struggling with feelings of purposelessness or lack of direction.
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social and ENVIRONMENTAL benefits of having houseplants
Along with creating a connection to nature and a sense of accomplishment, caring for houseplants can also promote mindfulness and relaxation. Taking the time to care for a plant requires us to slow down, be present in the moment and find a sense of peace, rather than rushing through our tasks or getting too caught up in our thoughts.
Another benefit of caring for houseplants is that they can be a great social support and connection. Smartass Plant Moms has a great network going for the social aspect! Sharing our love for plants, getting tips and tricks, even just talking about wishlist plants, can provide a sense of community and connection. In addition, caring for plants can be a therapeutic and meditative activity, which can help to reduce anxiety and promote feelings of calm and relaxation.
Caring for houseplants can also have a number of other positive effects on our mental health. For example, studies have shown that having plants in the home can improve air quality, which can in turn improve respiratory health and reduce stress and fatigue. Houseplants can also serve as a natural humidifier, which can help to alleviate dry air and reduce the risk of respiratory infections.
Customize your houseplants to your mental health needs
It’s important to note that the psychological benefits of caring for houseplants may vary from person to person, and may also depend on the type of plant being cared for. Some people may find certain plants more calming or stress-reducing than others, and may also find certain tasks (such as watering or pruning) more therapeutic. It’s also important to choose plants that are suitable for the individual’s level of care and experience, as struggling to care for a plant that is too demanding can have the opposite effect and increase stress.
Aside from the benefits mentioned above, there are several other ways in which caring for houseplants can benefit our mental health. For example:
- Houseplants can serve as a form of “green therapy,” helping to improve mood and reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. A study published in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology found that office workers who had plants in their workspace reported lower levels of stress and anxiety, as well as higher levels of happiness and productivity.
- Caring for houseplants can provide a sense of accomplishment and pride. Seeing a plant thrive and grow under our care can give us a sense of purpose and accomplishment, which can be especially beneficial for those who are struggling with feelings of worthlessness or lack of direction.
- Houseplants can serve as a natural source of stress relief. Simply being in the presence of plants has been shown to have a calming effect on the mind and body, helping to reduce stress and promote feelings of relaxation.
- Caring for houseplants can be a meditative and therapeutic activity. Taking the time to care for a plant requires us to slow down and focus on the present moment, rather than getting caught up in our thoughts or worries. This can help to reduce anxiety and promote feelings of calm and well-being.
In conclusion, houseplants are awesome! Caring for houseplants can provide a number of great psychological benefits, including reduced stress and anxiety, improved mood with a a sense of accomplishment and purpose, and a natural source of stress relief and relaxation. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a beginner, adding some plants to your home or workspace can have a positive impact.
References:
- “The Mental Health Benefits of Gardening.” Mental Health Foundation, www.mentalhealth.org.uk/publications/gardening-and-mental-health.
- “The Surprising Science Behind Why Being Around Plants is Good For Your Mental Health.” Forbes, Forbes Magazine, 22 Mar. 2018, www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2018/03/22/the-surprising-science-behind-why-being-around-plants-is-good-for-your-mental-health/?sh=766651526b41.
- “The Health Benefits of Houseplants.” Healthline, Healthline Media, 6 Nov. 2019, www.healthline.com/health/benefits-of-houseplants.
- “Plants in the Workplace: A Review of the Benefits of Adding Live Plants to Offices.” Journal of Physiological Anthropology, vol. 35, no. 1, 2016, pp. 1-9.
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