Indoor Plants
From: kwiklearning.com
“Here’s How Indoor Plants Help You”
Scientific results have proven that spending time in nature enhances both mental and physical health.
More and more American seniors now reside in a city or town. Their living space may have limited or no greenery, the result is that they are not receiving the benefits of plants.
- House Plants Promote Blood Circulation in the Brain
Lack of adequate oxygen leaves the senior brain in a “brain fog”. The brain fog often causes exhaustion and stress. The stress over a period of time leads to anxiety. The anxiety constricts the vessels, leading to even poorer oxygen circulation.
Plants work the opposite of humans; they inhale carbon dioxide and exhale oxygen. When there are plants present in a room the oxygen circulation increases, easing the brain fog and the feeling of exhaustion. Plants do not have the ability to reduce stress, but they may help keep it in control.
- House Plants Boost Attention and Memory
Several scientific studies have shown that presence of plants in a work area have provided individuals the ability to work longer and maintain the quality of their work. These test results have shown that there is a 20% increase of memory retention and productivity in the work.
- House Plants Help with Screen Fatigue
The blue light emitted by computer screens, cell phone screens, and televisions have a negative affect on the brain. The blue light activates the stress hormones in both the brain and body.
Studies show that looking at the color green helps to stabilize the stress hormones, calming the brain. Having plants near the work space attracts the eyes, taking them off of the blue light.
- Improves Mood
Nearly all studies support the idea that plants boost happiness, especially flowering plants. Flowering plants promote the release of oxytocin and dopamine, the neurotransmitters that are related to motivation, security, peace, and love.
Gardening is not only a hobby, but even more so, it is wonderful therapy, especially for those seniors dealing with depression, anxiety and/or chronic stress. The nurturing of a living thing takes the mind off the of problems and issues that create stress. Sustaining a plant promotes self-esteem for those with self-image problems.
Plants liven up a space, infuse vibrant colors, and increase the oxygen in the space, all while regenerating and reactivating the mind.
