From the tranquil beauty of a lush garden to the vibrant greenery adorning your living space, plants undeniably have a mysterious knack for eliciting joy. But have you ever paused to ponder why plants make you happier? In this expansive exploration, we sail through the scientific, psychological, and evolutionary reasons that anchor our happiness to these delightful organisms.
The Green Connection: Biophilia and Happiness
Our very roots trace back to nature, and this ancestral bond has been encapsulated in a term called ‘Biophilia‘. This concept, coined by biologist E.O. Wilson, refers to the innate human attraction to other living systems and natural environments. This deep-seated connection, steeped in evolutionary history, has been substantiated by numerous studies and provides one of the earliest explanations for our happiness around plants.
The Fractal Fascination: Plants and Visual Pleasure
Examine a leaf closely and you’ll find a fascinating world of patterns. The intricate vein structure, the delicate arrangement of petals, the branching of stems — all these follow a fractal pattern. Fractals are patterns that repeat at different scales, and are found abundantly in nature. Our eyes are naturally attuned to explore these fractal patterns, thereby making the sight of plants visually pleasing and relaxing.
Soothing Greens: The Color of Serenity
Delving into the realm of color psychology, it’s no surprise that the color most associated with plants — green — has a calming effect on our psyche. Muted green hues have shorter wavelengths, reducing the need for our eyes to adjust, and creating a serene, relaxed environment. The color green also symbolizes nature and freshness, stirring feelings of tranquility and optimism.
The Scent of Healing: Aromatherapy and Plant Fragrances
The delightful aroma of certain plants and flowers not only invigorate our senses but can also have tangible health benefits. Coniferous trees, for instance, release natural oils that, when inhaled, can lower blood pressure, decrease heart rate, and even fortify our immune system. The act of inhaling these fragrant compounds is akin to a natural form of aromatherapy, underlining another reason why plants make us happier.
The Dynamic Entity: Plants and Change
Contrary to the static perception, plants are ever-evolving organisms. From the unfurling of new leaves to the vibrant bloom of flowers, plants exhibit a tranquil dynamism that adds complexity to our lives. Witnessing these changes sparks feelings of hope, wonder, and anticipation — emotions that subtly elevate our mood and contribute to our happiness.
Indoor Plant Therapy: Bringing the Outdoors In
Amid our increasingly indoor lifestyles, houseplants serve as a vital link to nature. These green companions not only freshen up the air but also eliminate harmful toxins, improve concentration, reduce stress levels, and boost mood. Whether it’s adorning your workspace with broad-leaved plants or creating a personal sanctuary at home with your favorite greenery, indoor plants serve both a practical and aesthetic purpose, enhancing your overall well-being.
The Healing Impact: Plants and Health
The positive influence of plants extends beyond mood enhancement and stress reduction. Research has found that plants in hospital recovery rooms or offices can expedite healing, lower employee sick days, and improve indoor air quality. Here are some of the notable health benefits of having indoor plants:
- Lowers blood pressure
- Reduces stress
- Boosts immune system
- Creates a positive mood
- Improves sleep
The Productivity Plant: Enhancing Efficiency
The presence of plants has been linked to improved performance and increased energy levels. The uplifting impact of plants can stimulate our minds, making us feel more alive and active. Even a single potted plant on a desk can enhance focus and decrease absences, making plants a natural ally for productivity.
The Quiet Muffler: Plants and Noise Reduction
Living in urban areas often means exposure to a constant cacophony of noise. Plants, with their sound-absorbing properties, can help create a more peaceful environment. By placing taller plants in strategic locations, you can effectively diffuse noise levels and bring tranquility to your living or working space.
Forestnation: The Joy of Planting
The enriching process of growing trees from seeds gives us a deeper understanding of our role in the larger ecosystem and brings enormous happiness. ForestNation’s unique Tree Gifts add further substance to this joy. They are not traditional gifts. They are lifelong impactful journeys, reinforcing an eco-conscious lifestyle and offering each individual a platform for true environmental action.
Moreover, handing out these Tree Gifts helps to foster deeper connections with nature. They serve as wonderful unique alternatives to traditional greeting cards, making commemorations of life’s milestones both meaningful and eco-friendly. By planting a ForestNation tree, you’re not just making a green choice, you’re invoking a deeper, satisfying bond with the natural world.
Our mission stems from the principle “You plant, we plant.” For every Tree Gift you buy and cultivate, we mirror your efforts by planting another in deforestation-affected countries. Thus, by choosing ForestNation, you’re partaking in a global reforestation endeavor and making an immediate tangible impact.
In Conclusion
The question, “why do plants make us happier” unravels a complex tapestry of reasons ranging from evolutionary connections to psychological effects, all intertwining to create our unique bond with these green entities. Whether it’s the soothing sight of greenery, the therapeutic fragrances, or the joy of nurturing a plant, the happiness derived from plants is multi-faceted and profound. So, if you’re yearning for an instant mood lift, maybe it’s time to adopt a leafy companion or gift a Forestnation tree kit to a loved one. After all, as the axiom goes, “The happiness of the bee and the dolphin is to exist. For man, it’s to know that and to wonder at it” — and what better wonder to cherish than the humble, happiness-inducing plant.
