Plants lift the energy and breathe life into a space metaphorically and scientifically. They are also esthetically pleasing and easily spruce up your décor, add color, vibrancy, and texture to your home or office. Scientific studies have shown that indoor plants have positive psychological effects such as reducing stress and feelings of fatigue. They are also proven to enhance productivity and improve your concentration.
In my personal experience, I find that my plants fill my home with joy and provide me with mental clarity throughout the day. I find them relaxing and they make my home feel like my personal oasis. Caring for them is therapeutic and regarded as a form of self-care for myself.
In addition to the peaceful calm they bring to a space, they provide an array of health benefits. There are a variety of plants that are tolerant and low maintenance to keep around. One may ask how do plants purify the air and how are they beneficial? It all begins during photosynthesis. Plants convert carbon dioxide that we exhale into fresh oxygen and remove toxins from the air we breathe. Plants can diffuse toxic chemicals including formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, and benzene. Each of these chemicals can adversely impact your health.
For optimal benefit, you should have at least two plants per 100 square feet. Think the larger the plant or the larger the leaves the quicker the air is purified. With that in mind ferns, ivy, and palms have greater surface area and are more effective at drawing out toxins. Here are a few plants to have around that are low-maintenance and great to have around (they are also easy to keep alive):
- Snake Plant
- Pothos
- Boston Fern
- Peace Lily
- Dracaena
- Devil’s Ivy
- Lady Palm
- Spider Plants
- Garden Mums
- English Ivy
- Aloe Vera
- Eucalyptus Plant
- Ficus Tree
Any plant is going to help improve your indoor air quality. However, the species listed go above and beyond when it comes to cleansing certain chemicals in the home and work diligently to keep your lungs healthy and clear. Staying healthy and beautifying your space is definitely a win-win….so go buy yourself a plant, or, three or five!
