Mindfulness, calm nervous system, better mood: Benefits of indoor plants are many

“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.

Soothing power of touch

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.

Nature’s healthy aroma

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.

Mindfulness through gardening

Have you ever noticed how caring for your garden brings joy and peace to you? There’s something very special about tending to plants. This is because gardening or caring for plants can be a great way to practice mindfulness.

When you’re gardening, you have to focus on the present moment, whether you’re watering or pruning. This focus helps quiet your racing thoughts and encourages you to connect with nature. Further, research suggests that gardening can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression since it allows you to engage in a productive activity that brings a sense of accomplishment and calm.

Deeper connection with nature

Being around plants and touching plants regularly can help build a connection to the natural world, which is important for our mental health. In fact, a study found that certain indoor plants have the ability to reduce psychological and physiological stress in humans. Indeed, many people feel a sense of belonging and peace when surrounded by greenery. This connection they feel reduces feelings of isolation and increases their sense of happiness too.

So, try and incorporate thirty minutes of being around indoor plants and steadily move to a walk in the gardens to feel the difference. Time spent in green spaces like parks and gardens have the power to significantly improve our mood and wellbeing in the long run.

Happy, peaceful indoor environments

Many of us live in urban spaces where green areas can be hard to find. That’s why bringing plants into our homes can be a great idea. Remember, having indoor plants are not just about beautification, they offer many benefits to our wellbeing. They help reduce stress and create a calming and soothing atmosphere. Further, having plants inside the workplace is known to boost productivity.

According to Ludden, “There’s plenty of scientific evidence supporting the idea that being in nature or bringing plants into our indoor environments, is good for our mental health. However, the evidence that touching plants can have calming effects on the nervous system is still minimal, but plausible, depending on the type of plant.” So, it doesn’t matter if you have a garden or just a few potted plants; you can still enjoy the many benefits they bring to your life.

So, take a moment to appreciate the plants around you. Whether it’s a stroll in the park, tending to your garden or simply enjoying a houseplant, make friends with the greenery. Your mind will thank you for it!