There are many reasons why offices should have indoor plants. Research shows that plants have several scientific benefits in addition to looking beautiful and creating a more welcoming and comfortable workplace. A number of studies have shown that plants improve memory, mood, and productivity. Most of the time we spend in our work environments (the office) lack greenery, even though we need it to be productive. Plants in the office can sometimes counteract the negative effects of office spaces on our wellness, which can sometimes interfere with our efforts to achieve optimum health.
Plants in the Office Can Improve Memory and Concentration
You know those days when you stare at a blinking cursor for too long or when all you can think about are the words on your tongue? It may have been necessary for you to undergo some plant therapy.
Exeter University conducted a research study in U.K. According to CBS News, indoor plants can increase productivity, staff satisfaction, and concentration by 47%. They also discovered that plants could boost memory by as much as 20%. Plants have even been shown to enhance a wide range of other cognitive skills, including creative thinking, spatial processing, and more.
Plants’ stimulating colors, energizing scents, and oxygenating properties probably explain these effects. Optimal brain function depends on striking a balance between oxygen and carbon dioxide. Our exposure to carbon dioxide (CO2) is higher because many of us spend several hours indoors. When CO2 levels are high, it is more difficult to concentrate, think clearly, and make decisions. Our bodies, however, are able to balance their carbon dioxide levels by breathing oxygen generated by indoor plants. Our minds are clear when we spend time outdoors and “breathe in the fresh air.”. Even so, you can only take so many breaks outside when working, but office plants are a great way to get some fresh air right at your desk.
Plants in the Office Can Help Relieve Stress and Anxiety
There is no such thing as a stress-free life in 21st century society. We are all faced with countless stressors on a daily basis, regardless of what the situation may be – relationships, world events, or even traffic at rush hour. With its never-ending stream of tasks, deadlines, and meetings, the office is stressful. Stress can be reduced at work by using office plants. Some plants have distinct scents that can be used as forms of aromatherapy. Flowers such as jasmine and lavender, for example, have been shown to relieve stress and anxiety and replace them with feelings of calm and relaxation. Additionally, plant colors have sedative effects. You may have heard about how different colors can affect your mind – it’s why rooms have a certain “feeling”. The same is true for plants. Observing the color green, for instance, provides emotional stability and boosts concentration.
The Best Plants for Your Desk at Work
You might wonder which office plants will provide you with the brain-boosting benefits mentioned above. Plants will improve your sense of well-being in some way, but some stand out more than others.
Spider Plant
The spider plant, which is one of our most popular plants, is a natural air purifier. According to NASA’s Clean Air Study, spider plants are most effective at removing carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene from the air.
Not only do these gases and compounds affect your brain function, they can also cause a variety of unpleasant ailments ranging from cancer to allergies.
In addition, observers observed that patients in certain hospital rooms benefited from spider plants more than others. The benefits included lower blood pressure, reduced pain and anxiety, and less fatigue.
Dracaena Marginata
The Dracaena marginata plant is a natural air cleaner, just like spider plants. It removes the same chemicals as spider plants, as well as cigarette smoke, synthetics and benzene (which can cause cancer). In addition to its bright colors, dracaena plants have a stimulating effect on the mind simply by looking at them.
Sansevieria
Another air-purifying plant is the Sansevieria or snake plant. Nearly any type of environment is suitable for this extremely hardy plant. Sansevierias are adaptable plants, so they’re perfect for offices, since they won’t be affected by air conditioning, fluorescent lighting, or frequent watering.
Plants in the Office – Make You Smarter and Happier
It’s time to get yourself some office plants if you’re having a hard time concentrating and your desk is bare. You can use them naturally and without any side effects if you’re feeling sluggish or mentally foggy.
There is a saying that “nature knows best,” and this certainly rings true for office productivity and wellness.