Mental Health Benefits of Owning Houseplants

Mental Health Benefits of Owning Houseplants

Are you feeling stressed, anxious, or depressed? Do you have trouble focusing or staying relaxed? Something as simple as having houseplants in your home can relieve these symptoms. I say this with confidence because I have totally been there! I have struggled with severe depression and anxiety for years, so speaking for experience, they really do make an incredible difference. 

Having houseplants in your home can be a great way to improve your mental well-being. Plants not only look beautiful, but they also provide a great outlet to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. In addition, plants can help improve cognitive function and mental clarity.

Not only that, but plants also provide a great way to create a more positive environment in your home. Whether it's a single plant in your bedroom or an entire room full of plants, the presence of plants can have a powerful effect on your mental health!

 

Benefits of Houseplants for Stress Relief

One of the most important benefits of having houseplants is their ability to reduce stress and improve your overall sense of well-being. Studies have shown that spending time with plants can reduce stress levels and help you relax. In addition, plants can help create a more calming environment in your home, which can help you better manage stress.

Not only that, but plants can also help release endorphins and serotonin, which are hormones that help regulate your mood. So, having plants in your home can be a great way to reduce stress and improve your mindset.

 

Benefits of Houseplants for Depression

Studies have also shown that plants can be beneficial for those suffering from depression. Being around plants can help improve your mood and give you a sense of purpose. In addition, plants can also help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation, which can be common among those suffering from depression. I have personally suffered from depression for the past 11 years and I can honestly tell a difference after I started collecting houseplants. New growth really knows how to lift the spirits!

Plants can also help provide a sense of accomplishment and purpose. Caring for a plant can be a great way to practice self-care and give you something to focus on. Plant chores are usually very therapeutic for me while helping me focus on the present moment. 

 

Benefits of Houseplants for Anxiety

Having houseplants in your home can also be beneficial for those suffering from anxiety. Plants can provide a great way to reduce physical symptoms of anxiety, such as increased heart rate and muscle tension. Plants can also help reduce mental symptoms of anxiety, such as fear and worry. I use them to distract me when I am having anxious feelings. 

Plants can also help create a more calming environment in your home. Being around plants can help you feel more grounded and connected to the natural world, which can help you better manage anxiety. I find them especially helpful during the winter months when spending time in nature sounds daunting. My solution - bring nature inside! 

 

Benefits of Houseplants for Cognitive Function

Studies have also shown that plants can be beneficial for cognitive function. Being around plants can help improve concentration and focus, which can be helpful for those who struggle with learning or memory. In addition, plants can also help stimulate creativity and problem solving skills. I try to get creative with the way I reuse items for my plants as well as the mediums I grow them in. There are a million different ways to get crafty with houseplants!

Not only that, but plants can also help reduce physical symptoms of cognitive dysfunction, such as headaches and fatigue. Because of their overall calming effect, plants can make you physically feel good. Having plants in your home can be a great way to improve cognitive function and mental clarity.

 

Benefits of Houseplants for Mental Clarity

Having houseplants in your home can also be wonderful for mental clarity. Plants can help reduce mental clutter and provide a great way to clear your mind. I love the moments each day that I take to admire my houseplants. Taking time to care  for your houseplants each day, even if it’s as simple as watering them or pruning their leaves, can be a great way to boost mood and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. 

Not only that, but plants can also help reduce physical symptoms of mental fog, such as headaches and fatigue. 

 

How to Choose the Right Plant for Your Home

When choosing the right plant for your home, it's important to consider a few things. First, consider the size of the plant. If you don't have much space, get a small plant that might not grow as fast. In addition, consider how much light the plant needs and how often you'll need to water it. Do some research on which plant might do best in your environment and with the amount of light you have available. Grow lights are always an option if the natural lighting in your home isn't the best.

You should also consider the type of plant you want. Do you want a flowering plant or a foliage plant? Do you want a succulent? Do you want a tropical plant or a desert plant? Some great beginner plants include Pothos, Peace Lily, Heartleaf Philodendron, and Snake Plants. There are so many different types of plants to choose from, so it's important to do your research before making a decision.

Finally, consider your lifestyle. If you have a busy schedule, it's best to choose a plant that doesn't require a lot of maintenance. 

 

So, if you're looking to improve your mental health and wellbeing, consider adding some houseplants to your home. Not only will they look beautiful, but they also provide a great way to reduce stress and improve your quality of life!

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