Green-fingered Brits are being encouraged to beat the winter blues with mood-boosting houseplants.
The experts at GardeningExpress.co.uk have named seven plants that help reduce stress and improve well-being.
January’s third Monday, “Blue Monday”, is said to be the most depressing day of the year, with many people experiencing stress due to the gloomy weather and returning to work after the holidays.
There is a green solution to improving your mental and physical health during winter and that is incorporating mood-boosting plants in your living space.
Often overlooked, houseplants offer a myriad of benefits beyond merely improving indoor aesthetics.
Plants are natural humidifiers and air purifiers and by improving the air quality in your home they can help prevent symptoms such as fatigue, headaches and dizziness.
They remove harmful pollutants from the air and release fresh oxygen, which helps with concentration and promotes productivity levels.
Studies* have also found that houseplants can help reduce stress, as being around greenery can evoke a sense of calm and tranquillity.
Chris Bonnett from GardeningExpress.co.uk said: “Many people experience a decrease in their mood and overall well-being during January.
“A great way to combat the January blues is by adding some greenery into your living spaces, providing both physical and mental health benefits.
“Indoor plants such as Peace Lilies and Spider Plants create a more comfortable and relaxing indoor environment by adding humidity and removing harmful toxins from the air.
“This is especially important during winter because using heating systems can sap the air of moisture.
“Living in an environment with fresh, clean air contributes to improved mood and overall health and well-being.
“Besides purifying air, houseplants can also reduce stress and create a more relaxing ambience.”
The experts at GardeningExpress.co.uk have identified seven mood-boosting plants:
- Peace Lily
Peace lilies are beautiful and elegant plants but besides their aesthetic appeal, they’re also very effective in removing indoor air pollutants. Better air quality has been linked to improved mood and cognitive function. Additionally, breathing fresh air can contribute to improved well-being and reduce stress.
- Lavender
Lavender is commonly used in aromatherapy because of its distinctive and soothing fragrance which is believed to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety and stress. Adding a Lavender plant to your bedroom can help create a calming ambience for better sleep which is important for improving your mood and energy levels.
- Spider Plant
Spider Plants are also great air purifiers, removing harmful toxins such as formaldehyde and xylene, and are known for their ability to contribute to a healthier and cleaner environment. Spider Plants are also easy to maintain and require little watering, therefore they’re also good options for those who are new to gardening.
- English Ivy
English Ivy has been found to reduce mould levels indoors. Mould can have negative effects on your respiratory health, so it might be a good idea to incorporate English Ivy into your living spaces to promote your well-being.
- Monstera
With its large bright leaves, Monstera is a great option if you want to add a bold green statement to your home. The expansive leaves are effective at absorbing water vapour and balancing humidity levels. This is important for mould prevention.
- Boston Fern
Boston Ferns are particularly effective at increasing humidity levels in their surroundings. Maintaining optimal humidity levels can have positive effects on respiratory health and overall comfort, potentially contributing to a more pleasant atmosphere.
- Orchids
Orchids are elegant and exotic plants and their visual beauty is aesthetically pleasing and uplifting. They also bloom all year round, so they’ll bring some brightness into the room even during gloomy winter days. Orchids are also very appreciated in Feng Shui.