As nurturing indoor greenery is growing in popularity, research shows that plant lovers are rewarded for their care with an increase in health and wellness in their lives. From delicate desktop plants to impressive indoor trees, greenery brings nature into a room and, although most plants will benefit from bright natural light, some will still thrive in more shaded areas.
As well as enhancing the look of a room, indoor plants, and gardens bring many other health benefits. These include improved air quality, increased motivation, and reduced stress, all of which provide a boost to well-being in any indoor environment.
Improving Air Quality at Home
All plants perform photosynthesis, a process that can help to purify the air through the absorption of carbon dioxide and the release of oxygen. The potential for air purification is maximized by architectural plants as they are larger with wider or more numerous leaves. Even trees, the tallest of plants, are becoming more popular as decorative indoor greenery because they add beauty and drama to any space.
From impressive arboretums built into the structure of a building to more manageable potted shrubs, trees can be incorporated into any home where they can add beauty and drama. As well as purifying the air, trees and indoor plants have been shown to have a positive impact on the presence of bacteria in the home, amongst many other health benefits that they provide.
Boosting Productivity in the Workplace
The addition of greenery in an indoor setting doesn’t have to be limited to a personal or recreational space at home. According to a new study, plants also bring benefits in the workplace.
While the majority of people agree that plants improve the general atmosphere in a room, almost a third say that plants help to improve concentration at work, and the study claims that productivity could be boosted by 15% by including plants in the office. Low-maintenance plants that require less direct sunlight do particularly well in interior offices and other places of study.
Helping to Heal in Hospitals
While plants and flowers can be used effectively in the decoration of impersonal and sterile hospital rooms, studies show that, as well as looking attractive, greenery can positively impact physical health. In a healthcare setting, being surrounded by plants or simply having a view of trees and gardens outside can decrease the need for painkillers, lower blood pressure and reduce levels of cortisol and adrenaline, the hormones associated with stress.
To this end, large plants are often found in reception areas and doctors’ offices, while building plans for new hospitals incorporate large windows and atriums that give easy access to views of indoor gardens and outdoor greenery.
As well as enhancing the appearance of a room, plants, trees, and interior gardens bring several health benefits in a range of indoor settings. From removing pollution from the air to lowering blood pressure, greenery can have a significant effect on health and overall well-being.
