Study shows plants are good for mental health

The University of Technology, Sydney study provided measurable evidence of the effects of indoor plants on occupants’ mood states and feelings of well-being. They found plants brought a 37 percent reduction in tension and anxiety, a 58 percent reduction in depression, and a 44 percent reduction in anger and hostility. Other studies also suggest that five or more plants in a room lead to people feeling healthier and happier. It is believed that even looking out a window at a green space can have benefits for your mental health. 

3 simple ways to improve your mental health with plants

  1. Mindful Gardening: Mindfully watering, pruning, and tending to our plants can be a welcome distraction from the stress and anxiety of work, constant use of technology, and general worries. While you’re focused on looking after your plants, you’re in the present moment and giving your mind a well-earned break from overthinking.
  2. Physical Activity and Plant Care: Regular maintenance activities like watering your plants, dusting their leaves, and moving them around to ensure they get enough sunlight can introduce a gentle form of physical exercise into your routine. To make it even more beneficial, incorporate some stretches, light plant lifting, or even play some music during your plant care routine. This can transform your plant maintenance into a joyful, mood-boosting activity, integrating physical health benefits with the mental health advantages of caring for indoor plants.
  3. Routine and Connection: Looking after our plants can provide us with a routine, and provide us with reasons to get up, out, and moving as we nurture them. Seeing our plants thrive can also give us a sense of achievement and a self-esteem boost. It can also help to connect us with others as we learn more, show off our plants, and share ideas (and cuttings!) So don’t feel too guilty when you’re tempted to slide yet another succulent into your basket while shopping for other things!  

Why Indoor Plants Are Good for Your Health

You don’t need a full garden to reap the mental and health benefits of plants, so if you don’t have the outdoor space, don’t worry about it! Indoor plants are just as good for your health as outdoor plants.

Not only can indoor plants improve your mental health in ways that were previously mentioned, but they can also improve your physical health. Plants like the peace lily, spider plant, and snake plant are known for their air-purifying abilities, removing toxins and producing cleaner, more breathable air, which is essential for overall health.

A touch of greenery in your environment has been proven to boost concentration, productivity, and creativity – making them a perfect addition to any home office or study space. They also bring a piece of nature into your home, creating a calming and relaxing environment. This connection to nature can significantly reduce stress levels and promote a feeling of well-being.

Improve your mental health and physical well-being with plants

In a fast-paced world, where indoor lifestyles are becoming the norm, adding plants to your life is a simple yet effective way to enhance your health and well-being. So, whether it’s for cleaner air, improved focus, or a tranquil mind, the benefits of indoor plants are too good to overlook.

Final Report to Horticulture Australia Ltd Completed 15 February 2010 “Greening the Great Indoors for Human Health and Wellbeing’, Margaret Burchett et al. University of Technology, Sydney (UTS) – Khan, M. A., Amin, N., Khan, A., Imtiaz, M., Khan, F., Ahmad, I., … & Islam, B. (2016). Plant therapy: a nonpharmacological and noninvasive treatment approach medically beneficial to the wellbeing of hospital patients. Gesunde Pflanzen, 68(4), 191-200. – https://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/news/why-houseplants-are-great-for-mental-health – https://www.smh.com.au/lifestyle/health-and-wellness/more-than-just-decoration-the-many-health-benefits-of-house-plants-20200708-p55a97.html