Perks Of Being A Plant Parent
Chlorophytum comosum, often called Spider plant
Throughout quarantine, we have all reconnected with ourselves and our need for fresh air. Now that college is back in swing and “Zooming” is now a part of our daily routines, we find ourselves feeling the walls closing in as we try to scramble yet another assignment together. When this feeling of stuffiness and claustrophobia arises, having a plant in your environment is worth the maintenance. Plants not only boost your mood and productivity, but they can also clean the toxins in the air around you.
Elevate Your Mood
A houseplant can be a little token from the outside world and add some natural, soothing beauty to your home. When you start to feel cabin fever and your mind begins to crave a change of scenery, going for a walk can do wonders for your mental health. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to take the time when you have so much work to do, or your location doesn’t satisfy your nature needs.
An avid plant parent, Sami Scott, said of [plants], “They create an environment that is much more appealing to study, due to providing the feeling of being in nature. In one of my classes, I learned about the Biophilia hypothesis, which is a human’s innate desire to be with nature, so I feel that my plants help satisfy this innermost desire. I typically feel calmer and at ease when I get to tend to or just look at my plants.”
We couldn’t agree more. Having a plant in your indoor environment can bring some of the peace directly to you. When working at your desk, seeing this greenery can help you feel relaxed and calm, enhancing your everyday mood and decluttering your headspace.
Productivity, Please
Most college students this semester can relate to that feeling of not being able to sit through another Zoom class. Your environment can change your productivity levels drastically. When you can’t go out to a coffee shop, or it’s too hot to be outside, having some greenery in your home can improve the effectiveness of your workspace. Plants also release oxygen and soak up carbon dioxide. With these benefits, we find our clouded brains and tired bodies feeling more productive and at ease. Adding a few plants that change up your scenery and add pops of color can give you a much-needed break to take care of and observe their growth.
Sansevieria trifasciata, often called a Snake plant
A Breath of Fresh Air
Moreover, plants act as a natural air purifier. Indoor air pollution is real and caused by toxic emissions such as benzene, formaldehyde trichloroethylene, xylene, and toluene. Most Americans spend over 90% of their time indoors, which can be worse than the air in the city. Basically, we’re constantly inhaling a ton of toxic compounds. Plants absorb the harmful toxins, break them down into byproducts, and store them for food, creating a balance. With cleaner air in your homes, this means healthier lungs and a reduced probability you’ll contract an illness.
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There are so many more additional benefits to owning a house plant. Make sure to do your research on which houseplant is best suited for you (and your living situation) to ensure the best results in your plants and your growth.
Written and photographed by Grace Doering & Graphic Design by Isabela Esparza