Ah, plants…there’s something calming about seeing them and having them around you. And not just in the garden either. In fact, bringing plants into your home or workspace could be way more beneficial than you think – and in some surprising ways.
Nothing beats having plants indoors. The greenery, the flowers, the way they develop and grow over time… Of course, this does assume you have green fingers, but most of us can keep certain plants alive. Some are much more forgiving than others.
If you are unconvinced, consider some of the more intriguing benefits such blooms and plants can bring you.
They make you more productive
Yes, it seems that having a plant watching over you all day instead of your boss could have a more encouraging effect. Who knew?
One study found that green offices experienced a 15% rise in productivity compared to those that weren’t so green. Of course, if you work from home, you can easily benefit from this fact by introducing some greenery into your workspace. Even a plant or two on your desk or nearby can make a major difference.
They knock back your stress levels
We all know the feeling of calmness we experience when we go out into nature. Wandering in woods, forests, or similar places gives us a relaxing sensation.
It makes sense, then, that we should benefit from having lots of plants indoors too. If we cannot go to them, they come to us. Studies often show us that lower stress levels are just one of the advantages of having plants around us at home and in the workplace.
You don’t need to go overboard – a few well-chosen plants are ideal. Check when to water and feed them and you’re good to go.
You’ll breathe fresher air
This is important to us all in terms of health – more so if you live in a busy town or city.
It’s long been known that plants reduce carbon dioxide in the atmosphere around them. They can also get rid of harmful pollutants floating around in the air – pollutants that we would otherwise inhale. You can make any building greener if you add plants.
Which plants should you choose?
Anything is better than nothing, but researchers have discovered that some reduce harmful VOCs floating around in the air more than others. You may well know a little about rubber plants, spider plants, and peace lilies, for example.
All these are easy to care for. I know because I am no good at keeping house plants alive, and yet I’ve managed nicely with all three. Peace lilies in particular look stunning especially when they flower. Mine always surprises me and does it when I least expect it.
Of course, you should always choose plants you’re not allergic to and like to look at. All plants are beneficial to our wellbeing. If you’re not yet taking advantage of their surprising benefits, now is the time to do so.
-Allison Whitehead
Photo by cottonbro from Pexels
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