“The goal of life is living in agreement with nature,” said the great Greek philosopher Zeno once. This can be counted as a unanimous thought—we feel rejuvenated when we step outside and immerse ourselves in nature, place and age notwithstanding. Whether it’s a brisk morning walk through a local park or a leisurely afternoon in a garden, spending time among plants and greenery is a great way to refresh our minds and lift our spirits. This connection to the natural world isn’t just a feeling; it’s rooted in our biology and psychology as well.
According to David Ludden, professor of psychology, Georgia Gwinnett College, “It’s long been known that going out into nature has positive psychological effects, especially on people who live in dense urban environments or are confined indoors, such as hospital patients. Psychologists even have a name for it. We call it ‘biophilia,’ or love of nature. We think people are soothed by natural settings because this is the environment in which we evolved and adapted.” This insight by Ludden highlights how deeply connected our health and wellbeing is with the natural world. In a time when many of us are surrounded by concrete, understanding how our interaction with plants can calm our nervous system becomes essential.
So, join us as we explore how the simple act of touching plants and being with nature enhances our wellbeing.
In our busy lives, finding ways to relax and reduce stress is essential for our mental health yet hard to do. One surprising and simple method to calm our nervous system is through plants. Touching, caring for or being around greenery can have wonderful benefits for our wellbeing. According to Ludden, “In urban areas, parks are very important for the mental health of inhabitants. People seek out these green spaces in the concrete jungle and enjoy spending time there. Potted plants can also help relieve the stress of living in enclosed spaces.”
Indeed, when one touches leaves and flowers, their body releases oxytocin, a hormone that promotes feelings of relaxation. This lowers anxiety levels and helps people feel more at peace.
Imagine coming home after a long day and being greeted by the gentle aroma of scented candles. Feels wonderful, doesn’t it? Scents and fragrances can instantly lift your spirits and help you relax. Interestingly, nature is filled with beautiful smells that also have a positive impact on your mood.
Plants aren’t just beautiful to look at; they release certain scents that tend to improve how you feel. In fact, many plants, like lavender and rosemary, are known for their calming effect. When you inhale these natural aromas, they help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Studies have shown that being around plants can lower stress levels in humans and also promote relaxation.
Spending a few minutes each day touching, caring for or simply being near your plants can help enjoy their calming effects.
While more research is needed, some evidence suggests that touching and caring for plants can have calming effects on the nervous system.
Engaging in activities like watering, pruning or repotting indoor plants can reduce stress and promote mindfulness.
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