40 • happiful • May 2019
Writing | Bonnie Evie Gifford Illustrating | Rosan Magar1 Practise regular mindfulness
Whether you have a window box or a
desk corner, caring for plants can be
a great way to practise mindfulness,
which is is known to improve our
wellbeing, promote relaxation, and
reduce stress. Try focusing your
senses on your plant as you touch the
soil to see how dry it is, and examine
the leaves for any damage. Clear2 Gain a sense of achievement
and responsibility
Watching something grow and
thrive based on your hard work,
commitment, and dedication
can be a positive way to start
healthy routines and feel a sense
of accomplishment as your plants
begin to flourish – and doesn’t
come with too much pressure!
Low-maintenance plants such as
succulents or aloes can be simple
(and sturdy) starter-plants.We’ve all heard of the mental health benefits we can get from gardening,
but what about those of us without a patch of earth to call our own? Can
nurturing house and office plants still have mood-boosting effects?Plants can
significantly
reduce stress,
as well as
feelings of
tension, anxiety,
anger, fatigue,
and depression
Personal
GROWTH
Y
ou don’t need a green
thumb and a sprawling
garden to benefit from
the wellbeing-enhancing
powers of plants. While
an impressive 88% of us head to
the garden to improve our mental
wellbeing, according to a 2015 study,
recent trends suggest more of us than
ever before are looking for ways to
boost our mental health and wellbeing
with indoor plants as well.
Country Living magazine revealed
that searches for inspirational indoor
plants on Pinterest increased by 90%
in 2017, with terrariums, hanging
plants, cacti, and tropical plants
topping our search results.
To inspire you to get green-fingered,
we’ve got five simple ways that caring
for indoor plants can help increase
your sense of wellbeing.your mind as you focus on watering,
dusting, and caring for your plant. SIX EASY-TO-CARE-FOR
HOUSEPLANTS TO TRY- Aloe vera: low-maintenance,
aloe vera purifies the air, and
can be used herbally to treat
inflammation, scars, and burns. - Lavender: great for unwinding
and reducing anxiety, lavender
promotes better sleep. Be careful
not to water too much, and keep
in a bright area. - Eucalyptus: good for colds
and congestion, eucalyptus has
a pleasant but distinct aroma.
Remember to water regularly and
keep in direct sunlight. - English ivy: studies suggest
this can act as an air purifier and
help combat mould levels. Water
generously, and keep in direct
sunlight. - Succulents: low maintenance
and cute, succulents produce
oxygen all day and night. - Spider plant: a resilient option
for newbies, these are a great
choice for pet owners since
they’re non-toxic if accidentally
nibbled.