Indoor greenery comes with many benefits
Over the past decade, I’ve moved into several new apartments—and cities. One of the first things I always do in a new space is paint the walls. Even just adding a touch of color instantly makes a place feel like home. It’s not just for aesthetics, either—I’m a believer in color therapy, and for me, it truly works.
The second step in my moving-in ritual? Adding plants. I can’t imagine living in a space—no matter how small—without some form of indoor greenery. Plants not only enhance the décor, but they also bring me a sense of calm and joy. I love caring for them, even if I’m not exactly known for having a green thumb.
Why You Should Add Plants to Your Home
Beyond being beautiful decorative elements, indoor plants offer numerous benefits for our overall well-being. In fact, the presence of greenery indoors can impact everything from air quality to mental health.
One fascinating example comes from a NASA study conducted in the early 1980s. While researching air purification methods for closed environments like spacecraft, scientists discovered that plant roots and soil could help eliminate airborne volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These are harmful pollutants commonly found in household air due to cleaning products, furniture, and synthetic materials.
The soil and the roots of plants can get rid of so called airborne pollutants.
Plants Help Us De-Stress
As more of us spend our days indoors—whether at home or in an office—it's important to create an environment that supports mental wellness. Studies have shown that indoor plants can help lower heart rate and blood pressure, promoting a sense of calm.
In one simple experiment, participants were asked to complete one of two tasks: repotting a houseplant or working on a computer. Those who handled plants showed significantly lower stress levels, with reduced heart rates and blood pressure. Researchers have even coined the term outdoorphins—a play on endorphins—to describe the feel-good chemicals released when we interact with nature.
Boosting Focus and Mental Clarity
Adding houseplants to your work or study area may also improve cognitive performance. In a 2019 study, participants were placed in rooms with either a real plant, a plastic plant, or a photograph of a plant. The group with the real plant demonstrated significantly better concentration and task performance.
Horticultural Therapy Is on the Rise
Recently, I came across the concept of horticultural therapy, which is increasingly being used to support people dealing with anxiety and depression. Therapists have found that patients who engage in simple gardening tasks—like repotting plants or working with soil—show marked improvements in mood and mental health.
Living with plants can improve mood, lower stress and boost cognitive functions.
Not All Plants Are Created Equal
When it comes to improving air quality, some plants are more effective than others. Among the best air-purifying plants are:
Bamboo
Rubber plant
Aloe vera
Snake plant
Spider plant
Dracaena
I keep a snake plant and a dracaena in my bedroom and have genuinely noticed an improvement in my sleep quality since adding them.
Be mindful of Toxicity
If you share your home with pets or small children, be sure to check whether a plant is toxic before bringing it home. My cat loves to snack on greenery, so I’ve had to be extra cautious about my choices—both in terms of plant species and the type of pot I use. If you have a small pet, placing plants in taller or hanging planters can help keep them out of reach.
A Mutually Rewarding Relationship
Despite my occasional overwatering mishaps, caring for plants is one of the most fulfilling parts of my home life. It feels like a partnership—one where I often feel like I’m receiving more than I give.
So if you haven’t already added some indoor greenery to your space, give it a try. You might be surprised by how much better you feel. And if you do, let us know—how has it changed your space and your state of mind?
