From the Victorians to Today: The Benefits of Indoor Plants for Reducing Stress and Enhancing Mood
Stress levels are at an all-time high. Research indicates that nearly 50% of people living in the U.S. frequently experience stress, leading many to seek accessible solutions for relief. While exercise, meditation, and therapy are common strategies, one often overlooked method of improving mental well-being is bringing houseplants into the home. During the colder months, when outdoor exposure to nature is limited, having an indoor garden filled with greenery can serve as a vital mood booster and stress reliever.
Each plant provides their own mood-boosting benefit.
The Science Behind Plants and Stress Relief
Indoor plants in our living spaces has been scientifically linked to improved mental health. According to some studies, being surrounded by greenery can lower cortisol levels—the hormone associated with stress—while promoting a sense of calm and relaxation. When you care for plants, it becomes a mindful activity that encourages routine and patience, fostering a sense of accomplishment and well-being.
Beyond psychological benefits, houseplants can improve air quality, reduce toxins, and increase humidity levels, all contributing to a healthier home environment. In essence, plants are a natural remedy to the artificial, screen-heavy lives many of us lead today.
During the industrial boom of the 19th century, many people brought plants into their homes to escape the fast pace of urban life and air pollution from factories and to help them feel close to nature again.
A Historical Perspective: The Victorian Era and Indoor Plants
Incorporating greenery into interior spaces is far from a modern trend. During the Victorian era, indoor plants were not just a decorative element but a status symbol and a reflection of moral virtue. Large Victorian homes often featured solariums, parlors, conservatories, and private greenhouses. The popularity of houseplants during this time was influenced by an increased interest in botany, colonial trade bringing exotic plants to Europe, and a cultural fascination with nature as an escape from industrialization.
Notable Victorian-era houseplants included ferns, palms, and ivy—species that were aesthetically pleasing and easy to maintain in the dimly lit rooms of the time. Integrating greenery into home decor was seen as a way to purify the air, uplift the spirit, and reflect one's refinement and sophistication.
Humans are biologically connected to the natural world. Indoor plants bring you one step closer to nature.
Why Indoor Plants Matter Now More Than Ever
Maybe we are not much different than our Victorian ancestors who wanted to escape the fast pace of life. As we find ourselves in an era of heightened anxiety and uncertainty, creating a personal sanctuary becomes essential—and what better way to achieve that than by introducing plants into the home?
Especially during the winter, when natural light is scarce and opportunities to spend time outdoors are limited, indoor plants offer a much-needed connection to nature. Their presence can help combat seasonal depression, reduce feelings of isolation, and improve overall mood.
Bringing Greenery Into Your Home
If you're looking to incorporate houseplants into your living space, start with low-maintenance indoor plants such as:
Snake Plant (Sansevieria): Thrives in low light and requires minimal watering.
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum): Grows quickly and adapts well to different conditions.
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum): Known for its air-purifying qualities.
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum): Adds elegance while filtering toxins from the air.
Spider plants are low-maintenance and easy for plant beginners.
Caring for houseplants doesn't have to be complicated. You can start with one or two plants that are known for being easy for new plant parents, and then you can gradually expand your collection as you gain confidence. Nurturing plants, watching them thrive, and appreciating their presence can profoundly impact your well-being.
Final Thoughts
Incorporating houseplants into your home is a simple and effective way to reduce stress and improve mood. Whether inspired by history, science, or a desire for tranquility, the benefits of indoor greenery are undeniable. As the colder months set in, consider creating your own botanical retreat. In this space, nature, history, and well-being converge perfectly.