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May 105 min read

The Therapeutic Power of Indoor Plants

In the heart of the bustling city, amid towering skyscrapers and neon-lit streets, there lies a sanctuary of greenery—a reminder of life in its purest form. Tucked away in the corner of my humble abode, this indoor oasis has become more than just a collection of plants; it's akin to having living companions, each requiring care and attention, much like having a pet. As I water them, prune their leaves, and ensure they receive adequate sunlight, I'm reminded of the responsibility that comes with nurturing another living being. This act of caregiving not only fosters a deeper connection with nature but also prompts me to think beyond myself, considering the needs of these green companions and ensuring their well-being. In doing so, I'm transported from the hustle and bustle of urban life, finding solace in their silent presence and the simple act of caring for another living being.


As I tended to my growing family of plants, I felt a sense of kinship—a silent understanding that transcended language and culture. With each watering and pruning, I formed a bond with these silent companions, forging a connection that filled my heart with warmth and joy.

I found myself immersed in the captivating world of indoor plants—each leaf a brushstroke of vibrant green, each stem a testament to resilience and growth. I felt a sense of joy and anticipation, eagerly awaiting the transformation that would unfold before my eyes. But perhaps the greatest gift of all was the reminder of life's enduring beauty—the resilience of nature in the face of adversity, the tenacity of growth in the midst of chaos. In a world filled with uncertainty, my indoor garden became a beacon of hope—a symbol of renewal and regeneration that bloomed with each passing day


But it wasn't just the physical presence of these plants that captivated me—it was the profound impact they had on my mental and emotional well-being. This connection is echoed in science as well.






Plants help us breath

Our indoor spaces are where we spend the majority of our time, about 87% to be exact. But spending so much time indoors comes with its own set of problems like breathing in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other pollutants, which can stress us out and affect our health. To combat this, people have turned to plants as a natural solution.

  • Plus, plants clean up our indoor air by absorbing carbon dioxide (CO2), ozone (O3), VOCs, and other pollutants. By acting as natural air purifiers, indoor plants not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of living spaces but also promote physical health and vitality.



Plants can quickly improve mood

Research shows that plants can quickly boost our mood. Just a few minutes around them can make a big difference. In one study, people who spent 5 to 10 minutes near houseplants felt happier than those without plants. Another study found that being near a tall plant for 15 minutes made people feel more peaceful and positive. This highlights how plants can swiftly improve our emotional well-being.


Plants help with enclosed spaces

In a study during pandemic lockdowns, people with indoor plants had fewer depression and anxiety symptoms. Being around houseplants created a sense of "getting away" from social or physical pressures, providing a form of escape.


Plants have stress-reducing effects.

Interacting with plants can calm our body's stress response system, as shown in studies where young adults felt significantly less stressed after tending to indoor plants compared to computer-based tasks. Handling plants also led to lower blood pressure readings, indicating their potential to soothe the body's fight-or-flight response.


Healing power of Plants

Moreover, plants have a rejuvenating ability. When we encounter a plant during mentally taxing activities like work, it can ignite our curiosity, shift our focus, and replenish our drained mental and physical reserves—an idea rooted in attention restoration theory. Studies have demonstrated that this "restoration" effect can enhance positive emotions, productivity, creativity and attention span.


This research further solidifies an idea popularized in 1984 by naturalist and writer E.O. Wilson called biophilia hypothesis, which posits an innate human affinity for nature. It highlights the importance of integrating natural elements into the built environment to enhance overall well-being and quality of life.


Research suggests that the colors of plants and flowers can significantly impact our emotions and physiological responses.

  • For instance, studies have shown that English ivy with green-yellow and bright-green leaves can evoke feelings of cheerfulness and relaxation, while whitish-green leaves may stimulate negative emotions.

  • Similarly, certain colors of flowering plants have been found to affect blood pressure and heart rate, with purple, green, red, pink, and white flowers exhibiting varying effects.

    • Interestingly, purple and green flowers appear to be more effective in promoting relaxation, reducing anxiety, and improving mood.

    • Moreover, studies have indicated that red and yellow roses may elicit a more calming response compared to white ones.

These findings highlight the powerful influence of plant colors on human well-being and suggest potential therapeutic applications in various settings.

In light of these findings, it becomes evident that indoor plants serve as more than just decorative accents—they are silent companions that nurture the mind, body, and soul. As we delve deeper into the verdant world of indoor gardening, let us embrace the transformative power of nature and cultivate our own oasis of tranquility amidst the chaos of modern life.


So, as I bask in the gentle glow of my leafy companions, I invite you to join me on this journey of growth and discovery. Let us explore the verdant world of indoor plants together, embracing the beauty of nature in all its forms. For in the quiet embrace of a leafy oasis, we may just find the peace and tranquility our souls have been searching for. 🌿'


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