If you’re feeling a little on edge, heavy with worry, and enveloped by a general melancholy, it might (ironically) make you feel a bit better knowing you’re not the only one. It’s been a heavy year and the holidays can be so taxing. We’ve given so much of ourselves to our work, our family, and our community—even to our hobbies that are supposed to relax us—that we feel depleted. One simple solution that’ll help us chip away at the malaise is to turn to our plants. They have the power to quietly and effectively lift our spirits and give us purpose.
Whether its decorative houseplants, a windowsill herb garden, or the plants and veggies in our yards, plants and gardening are powerful forms of self-care that can nurture both our physical and mental well-being. And as we nurture them, plants and landscapes nurture us in so many imperceptible ways.
Plants As Healers
We spend lots of energy feeding, water, and pruning plants. But how do they physically give back to us? Let’s review some basic science. Plants release oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide. With that alone it is evident that plants play a vital role in the lives of, well, every oxygen-breathing thing on earth. In addition, and much more locally, certain houseplants like snake plants (Sansevieria), peace lilies (Spathiphyllum), and spider plants (Chlorophytum comosum) are effective at filtering out harmful toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, and ammonia commonly found in household products. You’ll need quite a few plants to get the air cleaning benefits, so don’t feel bad about those extra houseplant purchases!
We think of plants as just taking up water to use in the process of photosynthesis. But plants release water, too, through the process of transpiration. This helps increase humidity, which can be especially beneficial during dry winter months when a home can be as arid as the Sahara. Problems with dry skin, scratchy eyes or even some breathing issues? Get yourself some houseplants as a way to naturally humidify your home.
Plants’ Mental and Emotional Benefits
Plants’ nurturing capabilities are more than just skin deep. They can have a real impact on our emotional and mental well-being, too. There’s a reason we give flowers to those we love and appreciate. The play of colors, textures, and fragrances touches our emotions, and there’s something very real and calming about that.
But let’s consider something bigger than a bouquet. How groupings of plants or a whole environment can impact our mental and emotional health is a concept called eco-therapy, or nature-based therapy. Research has shown that interacting with plants can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve mood. Have you heard of “forest bathing”? It’s the Japanese practice of walking in a natural outdoor environment, and it helps to reduce stress hormones and increase feelings of calm. If you’ve felt a natural high after walking or hiking through a park or the woods, that’s the result of forest bathing. Why not recreate an indoor version of forest bathing with houseplants? When artfully placed in a room, this indoor oasis helps to soften edges, provide textures and create balance in a box-like space.
It’s not just being immersed in plants and nature that can help to calm and soothe. The hands-on act of nurturing plants by watering, trimming, and caring about plants offers a sense of purpose and provides a routine. It also stimulates the release of dopamine—the neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward—giving us a sense of accomplishment as we watch our plants grow and thrive. Plant parenting is not just a trendy term! It’s a powerful mindful practice, rooting the practitioner in the present moment. It’s an act that’s an especially impactful way to improve emotional well-being for those struggling with anxiety or depression.
Get Your Hands Dirty
Getting your hands in the dirt is a good thing on multiple levels. Many of the microbes found in soil are beneficial for human health, specifically mental health. For instance, the soil microbe Mycobacterium vaccae can stimulate the production of the neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain, a contributor to feelings of happiness and well-being. Need a mood boost? Pull some weeds or pot up some plants and you’ll find yourself awash in calm and collected feelings.
But wait, soil microbes do more! Research in the field of soil microbe impact on human health suggests that a range of soil microbes can help regulate and support the immune system via its beneficial impact on gut health. And as we’ve all experienced, a happy gut goes a long way in creating a happy individual.
Giving the Gift of Gardening
After learning of all the ways plants, soils, and the act of gardening are beneficial to our health and well-being, spread the love! Giving the gift of gardening is a slam-dunk strategy this holiday season. Head to your local plant shop or garden center to find the perfect plant or garden accessory. Some gifting ideas that come to mind include:
- Houseplants! Buy new or divide one of your own plant babies for gifting
- Decorative pots for houseplants
- Houseplant accoutrement such as a mini trellis, moisture sensor, macrame hangers, etc
- Our rad new 110 Blend potting soil that’s perfect for houseplants
- Most any plant will appreciate a fresh batch of compost tea made with our organic Worm Castings
- Gift certificates to and general support of a local organic/sustainable living company or non-profit like Izel Plants, Gardeners Supply Company Gives Back, or Seed Your Future.
Whether it’s a gift for a friend or family—or even yourself—plants and gardening invite us to slow down and be present. Taking the time to care for a plant and reconnect with nature are exactly the forms of self-care the world is asking from us at this moment in time.
