Mental Health Benefits of Owning Plants
What is the first thing that pops into your mind when you look at a houseplant? Maybe it’s “Oh wow, that’s pretty”, or even a “woah, that’s a cool plant”. And while we can all appreciate a houseplant; did you know that plants can actually provide several mental health benefits?
Reduced Stress and Anxiety
Being around plants and caring for them can help to reduce stress and anxiety. The nurturing process and the simple act of tending to plants can be therapeutic for some individuals. Sometimes, even having a schedule for when you water plants can be therapeutic as well. Maybe you water on certain days, and having that to look forward to can be a great stress reliever.
Improved Mood and Emotional Well-being
Studies have suggested that the presence of plants can positively influence mood and emotional well-being. This is attributed to their aesthetic value, and the sense of satisfaction that comes from caring for something. And, who can’t appreciate a big beautiful pothos or monstera, or even a beautiful, delicate, orchid?
Sometimes, even seeing growth of a plant, or seeing a plant that had previously been struggling, improve, can bring great satisfaction and joy!
Increased Sense of Connection and Responsibility
Taking care of plants can foster a sense of responsibility and connection to the environment, which can be fulfilling and contribute to one’s sense of purpose.
Air Purification
Certain plants are known to improve indoor air quality by removing toxins and producing oxygen. Improved air quality can also have indirect mental health benefits, as it can influence mood and cognitive function.
Photo by Jess Bailey on Unsplash downloaded 8/15/23
Increased Creativity
Being around plants and natural elements has been suggested to boost creativity. This may be due to the relaxing effect of plants, which can help in opening the mind to new ideas.
Restorative Environment
The presence of plants in indoor spaces can make the environment feel more calming and restorative, which can be particularly helpful for mental recovery and relaxation.
Encouragement of Mindfulness
The process of caring for plants can encourage mindfulness, as it requires attention to the plants' needs and can create a sense of being grounded in the present moment.
Sense of Accomplishment:
Seeing plants thrive and grow as a result of your care can provide a sense of accomplishment and boost self-esteem. Especially when a plant that had previously struggled is now flourishing. It can also be a great sense to see a plant that you’ve had for several years continue to grow and bloom as well! Plants can bring joy, satisfaction, and so much more when owning them!
Mental Health in Missouri
While owning plants can be beneficial for mental health, it's also important to recognize that it's not a substitute for professional mental health care when needed. If you are struggling, it’s important to seek the advice and support of a healthcare professional.
At Aspire Counseling, we enjoy plants, and encourage our clients to find things that bring them peace, and satisfaction (like owning plants and more!). Our therapists at Aspire Counseling work with those experiencing trauma, OCD, anxiety, depression, disordered eating, LGBTQ+ issues and more! Our therapists work with teens, college students, and adults of all ages, and can work out of our Lee’s Summit location, Columbia MO location, and virtually to anyone located in the State of Missouri!
Reach out today to begin your therapy journey with Aspire Counseling! You can simply fill out our online form, and one of our amazing Client Care Team members will reach out and get you matched up with a therapist based on your unique needs!
