Stress and mental health challenges are becoming increasingly common in modern society. In fact, mental illness affected nearly one in five U.S. adults (19.1%) in 2021, or more than 51 million people.
More and more, people are starting to recognize that nature, especially plants, can help reduce stress and boost mental well-being.
This article will explore exactly how plants reduce stress, including the psychological, social, and practical reasons behind the connection.
The Psychological Benefits of Plants
Plants do more than just look pretty. They can give your mental health a boost, too.
Stress and Anxiety Reduction
Spending time with plants can actually lower stress hormones like cortisol. Studies show people who garden or just hang out with plants feel less stressed and anxious than people who don’t.
Green spaces and natural environments can also have a calming effect. Being in nature lowers physical signs of stress, such as your heart rate and blood pressure.
Mood Enhancement and Emotional Well-being
Plants are linked to feeling happier and more positive. Studies show that people who work in green environments report feeling more satisfied with their lives.
Taking care of plants can also give you a sense of purpose and accomplishment. It’s a form of self-care!
Cognitive Function and Creativity
Plants can help you pay attention and focus. Some studies show people do 20% better on tasks that require attention after being in natural environments.
Plants are also linked to being more creative. People who work around plants report being more creative than people who don’t.
Plants in the workplace and at home: Creating calming environments
Adding plants to your workspace can boost your productivity and overall well-being. Houseplants can also improve your air quality.
If you want to add plants to your home or office, but you’re worried about keeping them alive, there are many low-maintenance options, such as:
- Succulents
- Devil’s ivy
- Zamioculcas
- Nerve plants
If even those plants sound like too much work, artificial plants can also offer similar psychological benefits.
Plants and social connection
Fostering connection and community
Community gardening and plant-related activities can help you connect with other people and reduce feelings of loneliness, much like the benefits of fishing can provide health, community, and a connection to nature. You can find social support that’s helpful for mental health recovery in gardening groups and community gardens. Gardening with other people can help you build supportive friendships.
Enhancing family dynamics
Gardening can be a therapeutic activity for families. It can help family members communicate better and work together more effectively. Gardening also is an activity that can help family members feel a sense of accomplishment as they watch their garden grow.
Social skills
One study showed that young people who participate in gardening programs improved their social skills by 50%, including communication and teamwork.
Nature in mental health treatment
More and more mental health professionals are using nature as part of their treatment plans. Here at Greater Boston Behavioral Health, we believe in a holistic approach, so we encourage spending time in nature as part of overall wellness.
What are some examples of these “nature-based therapies?” They include:
- Gardening
- Nature walks
- Mindfulness exercises in natural settings
These nature-based therapies can be integrated into a broader treatment plan. They offer a holistic approach to mental health care, addressing not only the mind but also the body and spirit.
Bringing nature home
Ready to bring some green into your life? It doesn’t have to be overwhelming! Here are a few simple ways to get started:
- Start small. Choose a few easy-care plants like succulents, snake plants, or pothos.
- Make plant care a habit. Watering, pruning, and repotting can become a mindful part of your day, or you could try Bhramari Breathing to reduce stress.
- Connect with other plant lovers. Join a gardening group or just spend some time in a local park or garden.
Even small doses of nature can make a big difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does nature help relieve stress?
Spending time in nature has been proven to lower stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. Natural environments promote relaxation by engaging our senses in calming ways – think birdsong, the scent of pine trees, and the gentle rustling of leaves, similar to the deep relaxation achieved through yoga poses and breathwork for stress relief. Nature also encourages physical activity, reducing tension and boosting mood.
How do plants avoid stress?
Plants, like all living things, can experience stress from environmental factors. They avoid stress through various mechanisms, including developing tolerance to drought or extreme temperatures. Plants also use chemical signals to communicate with each other, warning about potential threats like pests or diseases, allowing them to collectively prepare for and mitigate stress.
Why does gardening reduce stress?
Gardening is a fantastic stress reliever because it combines physical activity, exposure to nature, and a sense of accomplishment. The repetitive motions of gardening, like weeding or planting, can be meditative. Plus, nurturing plants and watching them grow provides a tangible reward and a connection to the natural world, fostering a sense of calm and well-being.
Which plant has an anti-stress effect?
Many plants have properties that can help reduce stress. Lavender is well-known for its calming aroma, which can lower heart rate and blood pressure. Chamomile is another popular choice, often consumed as a tea to promote relaxation. Even simply having greenery around, like snake plants or spider plants, can improve mood and reduce stress levels.
Key Takeaways
Plants can do so much more than just sit there and look pretty. They can actually help lower your stress levels and boost your overall mental well-being.
Whether you bring plants into your home, your workplace, or even a therapeutic setting, integrating plants into your daily life can have a positive impact on your mood.
Don’t underestimate the power of plants. Embrace them and enjoy a healthier and more fulfilling life.