Colors are a wonderful way to decorate our lives and spaces. We enjoy the bright colors of signs, the clean crispness of white paint and the calming earth-tones that surround campus buildings. But a particular color brings special joy, and that is the vibrance of green that is found in the great outdoors. From the deep hues of evergreen trees to the pastel tones of vines and to the vivid colors of well-watered grasses, nature is full of green.
Spending time in this green-space is highly beneficial, for not only getting vitamin D, but for many other reasons. Studies show that spending time in nature improves our physical health, lowering blood pressure, risk of cardiovascular disease, and so much more. Spending time outside can also provide a mood boost to the brain. But in bad weather, which is a common occurrence in Michigan, spending time in nature can be close to impossible, unless you enjoy venturing out in extreme environments. So what can be a solution to still enjoy the benefits of spending time in nature while cooped up inside? House plants!
Now, while spending time outside is preferred, house plants can still do wonders for our health. In a meta-analysis of houseplant studies, researchers found that the presence of houseplants in your environment can lower blood pressure and slightly improve academic achievement (we could all use that). Additional benefits include, but are not limited to: reduced stress levels, fewer depressive symptoms and fewer negative emotions. Plants also help improve air quality. An added benefit is decoration and a boost of color in otherwise beige and bleak rooms.
House plants are great, but many of us don’t know the first thing about plant care, so what should we do? First, determine how much available space you have. That will give you an idea of what kind of plants you can have. Second, take a look at some indoor-friendly options. One example is aloe vera, a plant that I personally have in the dorm; it is low-maintenance and can also double as a skin-care treatment. There are also bamboo, other succulents, snake plants, pothos and anthurium, just to name a few. These are some good beginner plants to start with. Once you finish picking out your plant, read up on it, how to keep it alive, and the best location for it. Third, actually go buy the plant, read the instructions, and care for it.
If you’re still not sure, here are some words of encouragement from Natalie Reid (junior, psychology): “I’m a huge supporter of indoor plants. I currently have 15 plants in my room, but having just one plant can make a difference. First and foremost, plants are fun! They come in so many shapes and colors, and they can really upgrade your space. Before you know it, you find yourself getting excited over a new leaf growing or a flower blossoming. For me, gardening keeps me present. My biggest tip: don’t be afraid to kill some plants. The goal is to have fun and learn as you go!”
So if you have been looking for a way to spruce up your life, no pun intended, go and get the plant and reap the benefits of a little greenery, and who knows, maybe you are secretly a green thumb and never knew it!
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of Andrews University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, Andrews University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.