How Growing and Nourishing Plants Can Lead to More Happiness

Whether you consider yourself to have a green thumb or not, you can’t deny the fact that growing and nourishing plants can make you happier. Perhaps this is the reason that the first man and woman had the entire Garden of Eden for their home. In ancient times, kings used to have their own secret gardens where they would spend hours relaxing and meditating. King Solomon wrote the Book of Songs probably with his secret garden as his inspiration. Legends have it that the Hanging Gardens of Babylon was built by king Nebuchadnezzar II solely for the entertainment of his beloved wife. There’s just something about taking care of plants that improves the overall health of a person. Here are some of the ways taking care of plants can lead to more happiness.

Plants Can Prove to Be Loyal Companions

They may not be as cute as dogs or cats, but plants can be just as loyal as your furry friends. A study done by the University of Nevada Cooperative Extension showed that senior citizens consider plants as companions. Since it had been a long time since they had last taken care of something, they felt that growing plants gave them a positive vibe. So if you’re feeling lonely today, why not adopt a tree?

Caring for Plants Can Lead to Better Mental Health

Not only can caring for plants improve your mental health by reducing depression, but it also gives you the opportunity to become more creative. This is especially true if you are dealing with potted plants and flowers. For many people who love gardening, their daily habit of watering and trimming plants is a way for them to let their creative juices flowing.

Indoor Plants Can Help Fight the Cold Virus

Indoor plants, in particular, have the ability to increase humidity levels inside the house. This ability makes them effective in reducing cold-related illnesses by 30% or higher. Plants also help control dust density inside the home, reducing the risk of family members to suffer from allergy symptoms.

Having Plants to Care for Contributes to a Feeling of Well-being

Human beings are designed to live in families and communities. Adults, in particular, have an innate desire to take care of another being. For elderly people and people who chose to remain single, having a plant to take care of and to act as companion can contribute to a feeling of wellbeing.

Gardening Can Lower Blood Pressure

Many of the health benefits of plant keeping is due to the fact that it can be a form of exercise. Gardening is one of the most enjoyable physical activity, and just like any other form of workout, it encourages the release of endorphins, which make you feel good. The extra effort you exert when you’re transplanting or watering and trimming the plants is also enough to up your heart rate and lower your blood pressure.

Nourishing Plants Can Help Fight Stress

Growing and nourishing plants is no doubt one of the most enjoyable hobbies in the world. The amount satisfaction you get from trimming a bonsai plant, for instance, is the same amount that you get when you’re cuddling with your pets. Research also suggests that taking in the beautiful sights and sounds of nature can be very beneficial for the mind. Even just looking at a desktop wallpaper that depicts nature is enough to reduce your stress and calm your thoughts.