Indoor plants don’t just look good—they can make us feel good, too. Studies have shown indoor plants can...
- Boost moods, productivity, concentration, and creativity
- Reduce stress and fatigue
- Clean indoor air by absorbing toxins, increasing humidity, and producing oxygen
- Add life to sterile spaces, offer privacy, and reduce noise levels
- Be therapeutic to care for
Plants Make Us Happier
When you feel down, it’s amazing what a walk in the park can do. That’s because when we get in touch with nature, we improve our wellbeing. Studies show time spent outside in green spaces can reduce our mental fatigue, increase our relaxation, and even improve our cognition.
However, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, we spend a considerable amount of our time indoors instead—around 90%. That is where indoor plants can come to the rescue. Although they are not a substitute for the ‘great outdoors’, indoor plants can provide similar benefits. Studies have shown even brief exposure to nature, like touching real foliage, can elicit an unconscious calming effect.
And not only can the presence of indoor plants soothe and restore—but scientific field studies have shown that in workspaces where indoor plants have been added, work performance increased, staff wellbeing improved, and sick-leave absences were reduced. Talk about plants with benefits!
So what is it about plants and nature that makes us happier and healthier? One theory is that our connection to nature and living things is in our DNA. Although philosophers and scientists have studied humans’ innate connection with flora and fauna for centuries, biologist Edward O. Wilson brought it into the 20th century his book Biophilia (1984). Wilson wrote about the biophilia hypothesis, which suggests all humans possess an innate tendency to seek connection with other forms of life—whether that be other humans, nature, or animals—and that this connection is deeply rooted in our biology.
The biophilia hypothesis is becoming more and more relevant as urban environments continue to grow, and we find ourselves interacting with technology more than nature and each other. It is vital for us to prioritize reconnection with the natural world to live happier, healthier lives. Next time you’re tempted to scroll through your phone, try sitting outside in a park or checking in on your houseplants instead.
As a seasoned horticulturist and environmental psychology enthusiast, my wealth of knowledge and experience in the realm of indoor plants and their impact on human well-being is grounded in both academic understanding and practical application. With a background in botany and a passion for exploring the intersection of nature and human health, I have delved deep into the scientific studies and practical aspects of incorporating indoor plants into various environments.
The article rightly emphasizes the positive effects of indoor plants on our mental and physical well-being, drawing attention to several key concepts supported by substantial evidence. Let's break down these concepts and delve into the scientific rationale behind each:
-
Boosting Moods, Productivity, Concentration, and Creativity:
- Numerous studies in environmental psychology and workplace design have consistently demonstrated that the presence of indoor plants positively influences mood and cognitive functions. Exposure to greenery has been linked to enhanced concentration, improved productivity, and increased creativity.
-
Reducing Stress and Fatigue:
- The stress-reducing benefits of indoor plants are well-documented. The visual appeal of greenery and the act of caring for plants have been shown to lower stress levels and alleviate mental fatigue. This is attributed to the psychological phenomenon known as biophilia, our innate connection with nature.
-
Cleaning Indoor Air:
- Indoor air quality is a critical concern, given our substantial time spent indoors. Plants play a crucial role in purifying air by absorbing toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene. This process, known as phytoremediation, contributes to healthier indoor environments.
-
Adding Life to Sterile Spaces, Offering Privacy, and Reducing Noise Levels:
- Indoor plants act as natural design elements, bringing vibrancy to sterile environments. They also provide a sense of privacy in open spaces and contribute to noise reduction by absorbing sound waves.
-
Being Therapeutic to Care For:
- The therapeutic value of caring for plants is a psychological phenomenon supported by research. Engaging with plants, whether through watering, pruning, or simply observing growth, has been linked to reduced stress and an overall sense of well-being.
The article's reference to the biophilia hypothesis, as introduced by biologist Edward O. Wilson, adds a fascinating dimension to our understanding. The innate human tendency to seek connection with nature aligns with the idea that incorporating elements of the natural world, such as indoor plants, into our increasingly urban and technology-driven lifestyles can positively impact our happiness and health.
In conclusion, the symbiotic relationship between humans and indoor plants goes beyond mere aesthetics. It is deeply rooted in our biological predisposition to connect with nature, offering a powerful remedy for the challenges posed by modern living. So, the next time you consider scrolling through your phone, perhaps a mindful moment with your houseplants or a leisurely stroll in a park could be the prescription for a happier and healthier life.
