by Jessica Mendoza, PICurrent Contributor
Courtesy of mscaprikell
Worried about the current state of our economy? You’re not alone. A 2008 USA Today/Gallup Poll found that 40 percent of the adults felt afraid and 53 percent felt angry about the economy. The American Psychological Association also found at least 80 percent of adults cited money and the economy as the main causes of stress.
Experts say the economy is likely to get worse before it gets better. So does that mean that your stress will get worse, too? Not if you can help it!
Instead of focusing on the green in your wallet, try focusing on another green – houseplants! Sure, they make your home look nice. But studies suggest that houseplants can also better your health and improve your mood.
- Lower Stress – See it to believe it! Researchers suggest that just the act of looking at a plant can calm us down. One study found that people who placed Devil’s Ivy in their offices felt less stress and described the space as more natural and refreshing.
- Boost Your Immunity – Lower stress levels boost your immunity, which can help you ward off a cold or the flu. Plus, plants release moisture into the air. The higher humidity levels can help relieve cold symptoms, like dry throats and noses.
- Fight Toxins – Plants not only take in carbon dioxide, but they also take in VOCs. VOCs are toxins (or poisonous substances) that are released by household items such as cleaning supplies, office equipment like printers, paint, and glues. One study from the University of Technology in Australia found that three Janet Craig plants reduced VOCs in a room by up to 70 percent.
- Enhance Creativity – Be inspired! A Texas A&M University study found that women who worked in a room with plants and flowers came up with 13 percent more creative ideas than women in a room with just sculptures.
What more proof do you need?
Get a list of common houseplants and their benefits
Don’t stop there! Learn eights way to beat stress!
[...] how useful these plants really are. Many of these plants are also low maintenance and come with many benefits. So with good soil, water and some love they’ll help the air in your home stay a little cleaner [...]