Most of us are well-aware of the natural beauty that plants bring to our lives, whether in our homes or in our gardens. But did you realize the plethora of benefits that have been researched and correlated to our mental and physical well-being? We all feel the need to lessen the stress in our lives. We all at one time, feel less than healthy. Indeed, life can be a challenge from so many directions. Blessedly, we have nature’s healing powers to help quell the storm.
Plants for Peace of Mind
One of the most beneficial elements of interacting with plant life is the influence on both emotions and intellect. Plants can make us feel safe, secure and more focused.
For instance, a study completed by the University of Washington reveals how being surrounded by plants can increase our brainpower. Both children and adults were found to have an increase in concentration and memory with a boost from nature’s botanicals (Serwach).
Conversely, researchers have also shown an increase in energy and creativity, making you feel relaxed and confident. Apparently, drenching your surroundings in daisies increases feelings of vitality and alertness, which in turn, ramps up productivity (). Yes! Bring those plants to work and school!
Plant Yogi
Also beneficial is how plants affect our mood and mental wellness. Just think of all the times you were either the giver or receiver of flowers. Studies reveal a deep emotional sense of calmness, just by gazing for a few moments at flowers or botanicals (Bernstein). Experience, the smell of lavender, eucalyptus, and lemon balm and you will be filled with a sense of serenity. Buy yourself bouquet and test this out!
Leaf Lifeboats
Our “Peace” of mind is substantially anchored to our physical health. Just improving mood alone can often help the healing process speed up. There is an actual practice referred to as horticulture therapy in which patients tend to gardens, or plants, in or outdoors. As a result, patients heal faster from interacting with nature.
Akin to this practice, Japan promotes a healing process referred to as, Forest Bathing (or therapy). This involves meditative walks individuals, or small groups take through nature trails and forest sanctuaries. Unlike hiking, the therapy involves a slower pace, unplanned direction and an all sense interaction with nature (hellobc.com). The connection people feel while wandering a forest soothes the body, mind and spirit. Another company in Japan has designed ecology gardens for the purpose of boosting healing endorphins, as well as removing toxins from hospitals. This is the simple practice of filling hospitals with an abundance of plant life. The plants accelerate the healing process by both cleaning the air and improving mood (https.//spinoff.nasa.gov/).
With all the advantages that plants bring, it is essential to plant seeds for that “Peace” of mind with some love from mother nature.
Through primrose tufts, in that sweet bower,
The periwinkle trailed its wreaths;
And ’tis my faith that every flower
Enjoys the air it breathes.
–William Wordsworth
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