World Mental Health Day: How Bringing Nature Indoors Can Make A Difference

With World Mental Health Day today, it's important to remember that our surroundings can play a crucial role in our well-being. In the UK, people spend up to 90% of their time indoors, which can take a toll on mental health. However, research shows that spending at least 120 minutes a week in nature is linked to better health and well-being (nature.com). Even if you're mostly indoors or live in a city, bringing greenery into your home can provide a calming connection to nature and support your mental health.

Research has linked houseplants to reduced stress, lower blood pressure and an improved state of mind. In light of this, the house plant company, Beards & Daisies have provided expert advice on the benefits that indoor plants possess.

The Physical and Mental Health Benefits of Plants

They’re are purifying
You might not think of pollution as a problem in your home, but nearly 4 million people worldwide die prematurely each year due to indoor air pollution, this is 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, some houseplants can remove these toxins, increase oxygen levels, and reduce airborne dust for healthier air”. Some of these plants include ‘Kentia Palm’ and ‘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. The simple act of being around greenery can have a soothing effect.

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 foster 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 – yes, really! 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 – impressively studies have shown that attentiveness is increased by 70% when they are present in a room.

They boost your immune system
Plants benefit your immune system in various ways: they improve air quality, reducing respiratory issues; release antimicrobial compounds that enhance immunity; lower stress levels, which strengthens immune function; and provide nutrient-rich foods like fruits and vegetables that support immune health.

They promote healing
They encourage healing. Studies have shown that plants 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.