It has been revealed that in the UK, people spend up to 90% of their time indoors. This is particularly significant during January, when shorter days and gloomy weather can contribute to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
Spending so much time inside can take a toll on mental health, but there are ways to counteract these effects. According to research, spending at least 120 minutes a week in nature is associated with good health and wellbeing (nature.com) – and there’s no need to feel excluded if you’re indoors a lot, as simply looking at greenery within the home can provide similar benefits.
Research has linked houseplants to reduced stress, lower blood pressure and an improved state of mind. In light of this, the house plant experts, Beards & Daisies have provided expert advice on the benefits of indoor plants:
The Benefits of Plants
They’re purifying
You might not think of pollution as a problem in your home, but toxins at home are caused by factors like home heating and chemicals in household products.
Jo, founder of Beards & Daisies and author of the houseplant guide ‘The Unkillables’, notes that “common household toxins include formaldehyde, ammonia, and carbon monoxide.
Fortunately, houseplants can remove these toxins, increase oxygen levels, and reduce airborne dust for healthier air”. Some of these plants include The Kentia Palm (our favourite) or the Peace Lily.
They boost your mood
The presence of plants can enhance the visual appeal of a space, making it more inviting and comforting. This can create a more positive environment, contributing to feelings of happiness and relaxation. Research has shown that interacting with plants can lower blood pressure, reduce feelings of anxiety, and increase feelings of calmness and satisfaction.
They’re calming
Benefits of plants include lower blood pressure, heart rate and a reduction of that dreaded stress hormone, cortisol. Caring for plants is a calming process too which requires attention and patience, which can encourage mindfulness.
The act of watering, pruning, and nurturing plants can be meditative, helping to slow down the mind and reduce anxiety.
They make you more productive
Beat procrastination with a plant!
Adding colour and greenery to your desk space can increase your productivity and creativity by serving you with a source of inspiration. This is because plants are proven to enhance focus. Impressive studies have shown that attentiveness is increased by 70% when houseplants are present in a room.
They boost your immune system
Jo reveals that plants contribute to a stronger immune system in several ways:
“By improving air quality, they reduce respiratory issues and help maintain overall health. Many plants release antimicrobial compounds that can support immune function. Additionally, their ability to lower stress levels indirectly strengthens immunity.”
For those that bear edible fruits or vegetables, they also provide nutrient-rich foods that further boost your immune system.
They promote healing
Studies have shown that houseplants can aid in the recovery of sick individuals. Research from Kansas State University suggests that plants serve as a “non-invasive, inexpensive, and effective complementary medicine for surgical patients.” The findings revealed that when patients recovering from surgery have plants in view, they experience less anxiety and fatigue compared to those in rooms without plants.
25
0
20
