Why you should have a houseplant

    

    House plants have many psychological and physiological benefits. As humans, we tend to seek connections with life forms. Plants trigger the production of serotonin, boost air quality and uplift mood. 

    We spend 90% of our time indoors. We are fortunate to live in a safe house compared to cave dwellers who were exposed to constant danger. However, we have become segregated from nature. Having plants in homes is not a substitute for the great outdoors, but it is a good compromise. Similar effects are noticeable with walking in a garden and watering your plant. The book "Biophilia" (1984), written by biologist and naturalist Edward O. Wilson, explains the biophilia effect. The theory expands on the human desire to establish a relationship with nature. We possess the innate tendency to seek connections with life forms, including other people, pets and even plants. With technological advancements, we are unable to create as many relationships. So it has become more relevant to incorporate plants into homes. 

    

    Plants also trigger the production of serotonin. Certified Wellness Councillor Joey Doherty explains that soil contains microbes known as "outdorphin," which trigger cytokine release, leading the brain to produce serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter. It is also known as the happiness hormone. Serotonin helps relay messages using neurons through a widespread distribution in cells across the brain and the body. The neurotransmitter has many functions, starting with regulating mood, lower anxiety and depression, improving memory, helping the body heal faster, lowering blood pressure, and increasing creativity. Having a levelled mind and a calm state will allow deeper thinking and boost concentration. Therefore you become more efficient and productive. Experiments have proven that having plants in the workplace has increased productivity and lowered the number of sick leaves. Some psychologists give their patients with anxiety or depression a diagnosis to take care of a plant. Now serotonin is required to help the body heal wounds. Blood platelets need the assistance of serotonin to narrow small arteries and form blood clots. Research has demonstrated it has psychological and psychological purposes.

    For plants to survive and produce energy, they go through a process that boosts air quality. The two phenomenons that benefit us are photosynthesis and evapotranspiration. During photosynthesis, the plant absorbs carbon dioxide and releases oxygen. Lack of oxygen will cause headaches, dizziness, and loss of concentration. You can ensure that photosynthesis will prevent a lack of oxygen and keep air circulation. Plants also perform evapotranspiration, which results in vapour release and creates humidity. As a result, it eases dry skin and dry throats and aids with respiratory illnesses. NASA's clean air study found that mechanical items emit toxic gasses. Fortunate for us, plants can absorb these volatile pollutants and replace them with oxygen.

    There are so many types of plants with different aesthetics. They create a beautiful, comfortable atmosphere and a welcoming, soothing ambience. Imagine walking into a room full of greenery and life compared to a room filled with paintings and lifeless statues. Taking care of a living organism that depends on you gives you a sense of accomplishment. You get to watch them grow and flourish over time.

    So, plants have many psychological and physiological benefits. They trigger the production of serotonin, boost the air quality, and are a beautiful accessory that uplifts mood and fulfills our innate tendency to create connections with nature. Disconnect yourself from technology so you can reconnect with mother nature.