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Incredible Benefits of Indoor Plants for a Healthier You and a Greener Planet!

Indoor plants benefits for your well-being

Looking to bring a touch of nature into your indoor spaces? Indoor plants are more than just decorations; they offer a myriad of benefits that can improve your well-being and contribute to a healthier planet. Best of all, these benefits are supported by science! Let’s explore the amazing power of indoor plants together.

Air Purification: Nature's Green Cleaners

Did you know that indoor plants act as natural air purifiers? Studies conducted by environmental scientist Bill Wolverton demonstrate that indoor plants can improve air and water quality, remove toxins, and create fresher and cleaner indoor environments. Increasing air circulation around the plants can boost their air-cleaning capacity exponentially. 1

 

Another recent study highlights how indoor plants significantly reduce the abundance of harmful microbes in the air compared to plant-free areas. This makes indoor plants a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution for air purification, benefiting both air quality and our overall health and well-being. 2

httpswww.ncbi.nlm.nih.govpmcarticlesPMC3230460 compressed
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However, it is important to consider that experts have different opinions regarding the effectiveness of indoor plants as air purifiers. For instance, Luz Claudio, a professor of environmental medicine and public health, argues that while plants can remove toxins from the air under laboratory conditions, there is limited scientific support for the idea that having a few plants in homes or offices can significantly improve air quality and health. 3

 

Another perspective, shared by professor emeritus of horticulture studies Stanley Kays, points out that studies conducted in small, sealed environments may not directly apply to real-world settings like houses. The air exchange that naturally occurs in most homes, where indoor air is replaced with outdoor air regularly, has a greater impact on indoor air quality than plants. Moreover, plants used in lab studies often experience optimal conditions and ample light, which may not be the case in typical home environments. 3

 

In conclusion, while experts may disagree on the conclusive evidence of indoor plants as air purifiers, there is an abundance of evidence supporting other well-being benefits that indoor plants offer. So, even if the impact of air purification may vary depending on factors such as plant quantity and home conditions, the positive effects on our overall well-being cannot be denied.

Stress Reduction: A Green Refuge

Indoor plants can create a soothing ambiance that promotes relaxation and reduces stress. Engaging with plants has been found to effectively reduce both psychological and physiological stress, providing a sense of comfort and tranquillity. In today’s fast-paced world, finding moments of calm is essential for our well-being, and indoor plants serve as your secret weapon for finding inner peace. 4



plant benefits supported by science

Improved Air Quality and Respiratory Health

Indoor plants release oxygen through photosynthesis, enhancing air quality, and also increase humidity levels by releasing water vapour into the air. This is especially beneficial during dry winter months when it can alleviate dry skin and improve respiratory health. Spider and Jade Plants are among the best options for increasing indoor humidity. 5

indoor plants as air purifiers and stress reducers

Enhanced Productivity and Focus

Having indoor plants in your work environment can work wonders for productivity. Studies have shown that individuals working amidst greenery have reduced sick days and increased productivity. One study conducted at Exeter University in the U.K. revealed that having indoor plants can boost concentration, productivity, and staff well-being by a significant 47%. Additionally, the research showed that plants can enhance memory by as much as 20%.  6,7



Plants increases productivity and are good for health

Indoor plants offer incredible benefits that go beyond aesthetics. By introducing these green companions into your home or workplace, you can improve air quality, reduce stress, boost productivity, and enhance overall well-being. So, why not start your own green oasis today? Embrace the power of indoor plants and experience the positive impact they can have on both your health and the planet! 💚

Disclaimer: We are a content provider supporting health, wellness and life purpose. Our products or services, while based in psychological sciences, should not be construed as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. That can only be provided by your doctor or another healthcare professional. You are recommended to seek professional advice if you feel you need personalised advice, diagnosis or treatment related to your mental or physical health.

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Citations and References
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Lockney, Dan. “Plants Clean Air and Water for Indoor Environments.” NASA Spinoff, https://spinoff.nasa.gov/Spinoff2007/ps_3.html. Accessed 18 July 2023.

Othman, Leen, et al. “The Role of Indoor Plants in air Purification and Human Health in the Context of COVID-19 Pandemic: A Proposal for a Novel Line of Inquiry. Frontiers, 18 June 2021, https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmolb.2021.709395/full. Accessed 17 July 2023.

Heid, Markham. “You Asked: Can Indoor Plants Really Purify the Air?” Time, 17 January 2018, https://time.com/5105027/indoor-plants-air-quality/. Accessed 20 July 2023.

Anthropol, J Physiol. “Interaction with indoor plants may reduce psychological and physiological stress by suppressing autonomic nervous system activity in young adults: a randomized crossover study.” NCBI, 28 April 2015, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4419447/. Accessed 25 July 2023.

Kerschen, Eric W., et al. “Evapotranspiration from Spider and Jade Plants Can Improve Relative Humidity in an Interior Environment.” 30 August 2022, https://krex.k-state.edu/bitstream/handle/2097/35195/803.full.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y. Accessed 25 July 2023.

Bringslimark, Tina, et al. “Psychological Benefits of Indoor Plants in Workplaces: Putting Experimental Results into Context.” June 2007, https://journals.ashs.org/hortsci/view/journals/hortsci/42/3/article-p581.xml. Accessed 17 July 2023.

 

Griffiths, Sarah. “Houseplants ‘make workers 40% more productive and creative.’” Daily Mail, 6 December 2013, https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-2519437/Houseplants-make-workers-40-productive-creative.html. Accessed 25 July 2023.

Citations and references are your security that the information you get on ELTC.earth will be accurate and trustworthy

Category: Uncategorised

grounding techniques to calm the mind

Grounding techniques are invaluable when you find yourself in distress or overwhelmed by emotions that can feel debilitating. They provide a quick and effective way to bring calmness to the moment, allowing you to regain control and find relief. What’s more, these techniques can be discreetly practiced without requiring any special tools. Let’s explore the power of grounding and how it can benefit your well-being.

There are three main grounding strategies: physical, soothing and mental. It’s important to try different techniques and see which ones work best for you, as we are all unique individuals. Let your body guide you on this journey of self-discovery!

Here are our top strategies to help you stay grounded and cultivate a deeper connection with yourself, nature, and at the same time others, while embracing the present moment.

physical grounding techniques

Physical Strategies

Physical Strategies engage your senses allowing you to regain a feeling of calm.

1. Focus the Senses. The 5-4-3-2-1 Grounding Technique

Find a comfortable sitting position, close your eyes, and take slow, deep breaths, inhaling through your nose (count to 3) and exhaling through your mouth (to the count of 3) Focus on and feel each breath as it happens.

Open your eyes and name, either aloud or to yourself:

  • Five things you can see
  • Four things you can touch
  • Three things you can hear
  • Two things you can smell
  • One thing you can taste

Alternatively, you can ask yourself the following questions:

  • What can I see?
  • What can I feel?
  • What can I hear?
  • What can I smell?
  • What can I taste?

The key is to remain fully present, noticing the sensations and observations as they unfold. When you’re finished, take a deep breath and allow yourself to relax.

2. Touch an object

Keep a small stone, gem, or any textured or interesting appearance object in your pocket or purse to have on the go if needed. Or simply find and touch an object within arm’s reach. Take a moment to observe it closely—notice its patterns, colors, textures, and weight. Does it sparkle, reflect the light, or cast a shadow? Allow yourself to become immersed in this observation, feeling yourself returning to the present moment.

3. Take a walk outside

Connect to nature by noticing your surroundings and describe them one element at a time—the color of tree leaves, the sky, the flowers on the sidewalk. Pay attention to the sounds around you, the feel of the air on your skin. This conscious effort to focus your senses allows you to appreciate the wonders of nature and restore balance that keeps you grounded in the present moment.

Walking or standing barefoot on the Earth is known as earthing, and can be particularly beneficial. As you stand or walk mindfully, try taking a few deep breaths and imagine sending any negativity down into the Earth to be composted, and drawing up whatever you need to replenish you.

4. Breathing practice

There are many variations of breathing practices for calming and grounding, so experiment with what works for you. A simple one to try is 4-7-8 breathing. Inhale for a count of 4, hold the breath for a count of 7, and exhale for a count of 8. Any breathing practice that focuses on making the exhalation longer than the inhalation, will help to regulate your nervous system and bring you back to calm. Try this for just a few minutes and notice the difference in how you feel.

soothing grounding techniques

Soothing Strategies

Soothing Strategies encourage you to talk to yourself with kindness and compassion allowing you to ground in moments of turmoil.

1. Positive self-talk

Using affirmations or coping statements can help calm racing thoughts. You can prepare a coping statement in advance and carry it with you, or practice saying it out loud or to yourself. Any statement that recognises the temporary nature of lingering negative emotions is helpful, like “Everything shall pass. There will come a time when I can face it without fear and anxious thoughts.”

 

You could simply use positive statement to change your state of mind, in different kind of situations, for example:

– “I am safe and okay in the present moment.”

– “Every experience is an opportunity for growth.”

– “I can always leave if I’m not comfortable.”

– “I acknowledge my underlying emotions, but they are temporary. This moment is just passing.”

– “This is hard, but I know I can cope with hard things”

Inner parenting is a powerful practice that can be used in many ways. To help calm yourself, try talking to your anxious self as if it were a separate part of you – your inner child. You can do this aloud or inside your head. Soothe this part of you and say kind things, acknowledging their emotions and reassuring them that they can cope. You might like to rock yourself a little or give yourself a hug.  

2. Visualise

Visualising a place that brings you comfort, peace, and joy is another soothing technique. Close your eyes and imagine yourself there, using your senses to fully experience the moment. Describe the details you see, the sounds you hear, and the scents you can smell. Are you standing, sitting, or lying down? Allow yourself to feel the textures and immerse in the sensations of that place.

3. Connect with Pets

Pets have a special way of grounding us. Take the time to focus on your pet’s features—notice their unique characteristics, the softness of their fur, the sensation of their tongue on your hand, the colour of their eyes, and their adorable head tilts or ear movements. Devote your attention exclusively to them and feel the calmness and joy returning.

mental grounding techniques

Mental strategies

Mental strategies help shift your focus to higher-level thinking, enabling you to cope with overwhelming emotions.

1. List things you are grateful for

Take a moment to list four things that bring you joy and for which you are grateful. Visualise them and let the positive emotions wash over you.

2. Describe objects and colours

Look around your environment and describe various objects and their colours. For example, a calm blue lake, a red wooden chair, a stormy turquoise sea, a black coffee mug, or a moist brown brownie. This exercise redirects your mind to observe and engage with the world around you.

3. Number subtraction

Subtract 7 from 100 and continue from there! Or choose any other number and keep subtracting.

4. Look into the distance

Subtract 7 from 100 and continue from there! Or choose any other number and keep subtracting.

Summary

Grounding techniques are practical and powerful tools that can help you reconnect with the present moment, getting out of our racing minds and back into our bodies. Through these practices we can enhance our  self-awareness and well-being. The more we practise them, the more we will strengthen our ability to manage our emotions in the longer term. Give them a try and let us know about your experience. Together, we can take care of ourselves while nurturing a healthier planet.

Article co-written with Kath Allen, PhD, and environmental leadership coach. You can connect with her here

Disclaimer: We are a content provider supporting health, wellness and life purpose. Our products or services, while based in psychological sciences, should not be construed as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. That can only be provided by your doctor or another healthcare professional. You are recommended to seek professional advice if you feel you need personalised advice, diagnosis or treatment related to your mental or physical health.

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