Most of us feel much better after a walk in a wild, green space.
We now have a wealth of scientific research pointing to the need for humans to engage with nature and how this can boost our general wellbeing.
But what happens when the darker, colder months arrive and even with the best intentions we spend less time outdoors?
One strategy we could consider is to bring the outdoors indoors by adding house plants to our home decor. This adds a touch of nature to your personal space and provides fantastic benefits to your health and wellbeing that are often overlooked.
As we approach the winter, our eagerness to be outside diminishes which can have a negative impact on our mental health, especially for those suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
Access to green spaces can significantly boost our mood and reduce stress but these benefits can still be gained by bringing nature into our homes or watching a wildlife documentary on television.
Adding indoor plants to our home reduces blood pressure and resting heart rate and induces a sense of calm by combatting the release of our stress hormone cortisol.
Creating this type of relaxing environment could be the perfect tonic after a challenging day at work.
Why not go a step further and take plants into the office? Research suggests that those working in an office where there are indoor plants are more productive, feel less stress and cope better with work-based challenges and conflict.
They also exhibit longer periods of concentration, become more creative and their cognitive function is higher. Yes, just seeing plants could make you smarter.
With this in mind, try having your workstation near a window with natural light and an indoor plant on your desk.
This is something we have done at Healthy Options recently with each desk now adorned with an indoor plant. We have also put one in our counselling room which will not only make the staff feel better but hopefully improve our clients’ experience and help them feel a little more relaxed when meeting us for the first time.
Many recovery units in hospitals across the globe ensure patients can see a green space or trees as this has proved to reduce recovery times and speed up discharge.
Those recovering in a room with a natural view call on their nurse less frequently, perceive less pain and request less medication. Green medicine.
Indoor plants also act as natural air purifiers. They absorb harmful toxins from the air then release clean oxygen into your home. They also reduce the risk of developing respiratory conditions and help if you have allergies.
The natural purification of the air adds a fresh natural scent to your home without chemicals and sprays.
Plants also have an aesthetic appeal and can instantly liven up a space with colour.
There are plenty of low maintenance plants that are perfect for beginners and don’t require a botanist’s touch to survive.
Plants such as snake plants, pothos and succulents are all relatively easy to care for and don’t need much attention.
Another option is to visit your local garden centre to get advice from staff on where to start.
If you would like to learn other ways to boost your health and wellbeing, self refer to our Thrive programme by visiting www.lornhealthyoptions.co.uk.
Cameron Johnson, exercise professional, Healthy Options.