Walking through a forest or meadow, we may suddenly notice that we feel more relaxed, and our breathing was slower and deeper; perhaps we feel joy and accomplishment when an orchid we have been caring for finally blooms.

 

Plants have an amazing effect on people, indoors or out, and their power to improve our well-being is real. Just being outside in nature and adding plants in the home will boost our overall homeostasis. Researchers at Texas A&M University published in the Journal of Environmental Horticulture found that living in or near green spaces and spending as much time as possible in natural settings and cultivated gardens can improve mood, reduce the negative effects of stress, improve learning, encourage physical activity and support overall health.

 

As spring approaches and we put into action the gardening plans we prepared all winter, remember to include plants in the garden and home that keep us at our peak.

 

Lavender is an essential plant in any garden and home. Beautiful purple spires, easy to grow with an aroma that promotes relaxation, calmness and sleep, lavender brings positive effects to our mind and body. Plant lavender outdoors to enjoy its benefits while walking through the garden, touch the stems and inhale the aroma. Be sure to place cut stems or a plant in the bedroom for better sleep.

 

German chamomile is an easy-to-grow outdoor herb with daisy-like flowers. When infused as a tea, it provides relief from stress and anxiety, and aids digestive disorders. This herb brings comfort to soothe the soul and calm the digestive tract.

 

Aloe vera is an indoor plant that can absorb airborne particles from paints, cleaning agents and other chemicals. In addition, the gel within its leaves is excellent on sunburn to provide cooling and promote healing.

 

The spider plant is one of the easiest to grow indoors and recognized for its ability to promote happiness, filter carbon monoxide from the air and produce one of the highest levels of oxygen. Place it where we spend most of our time working in the home.

 

Adding a cut flower garden to the landscape will support bees, butterflies and other pollinators, and bring joy and a smile when the flowers are harvested to be brought indoors for a stunning bouquet. The choices for flowers are legion, but a few that are easy to grow with many colors to choose from include snapdragon, sunflower, daffodil, zinnia, echinacea, dahlia, celosia and Queen Anne’s lace.

 

Nature provides us with an abundance of plants with the chemical or physical constituents to enhance our overall well-being. To feel their benefits, bring some into the home, get outdoors and make time to smell the flowers.

 

Cynthia Johannes-Beecher, MHA, RPh., RYT, owner and teacher at Your Yoga, in West York, is certified in daily mindfulness and aromatherapy. For more information, visit YorkYourYoga.com.