The Healing Power of Nature: How Plants and Forests Can Transform Your Health

Hello Friends! As humans, we're often stuck in our busy lives, glued to our screens, and forgetting the incredible benefits that nature has to offer. I used to be so guilty of this!! But what if I told you that spending time in nature can actually boost your health, calm your nervous system, and even fight cancer? It's true! Let's dive into the fascinating world of nature's healing power.

The Forest's Anti-Cancer Effects

A recent study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that spending time in forests can increase the number of natural killer cells in our bodies, which can help fight cancer. In fact, a 2019 study showed that forest bathing can increase the production of anti-cancer proteins by up to 56%! This is because the phytoncides released by trees have antimicrobial properties that can boost our immune system. If you are like me, you are asking about now…what are phytoncides? Phytoncides are organic compounds released by plants; these compounds are part of a plant's defense mechanism, helping to protect them from insects, diseases, and environmental stressors. There are two types: terpenes and essential oils.

When people breathe in these compounds, their bodies respond by increasing the number and activity of a type of white blood cell called natural killer cells or NK. These cells kill tumor- and virus-infected cells in our bodies.

Forest bathing is a great way to spend time in nature. Also known as Shinrin-yoku, is a Japanese practice of immersing oneself in nature, particularly forests, to connect with the environment through the senses. It's about slowing down, engaging with the natural world, and appreciating its sights, sounds, smells, textures, and tastes. The goal is to experience the forest with all your senses, rather than just hiking or walking through it. 

Bringing Nature Indoors

While spending time in forests is amazing, let’s be honest, we can't always get out there. That's where indoor plants come in! And I love them! Not only do they purify the air, but they can also calm our nervous system and promote well-being. Some plants are better at this than others. I have several of these plants in my home. I can tell a big difference when I am surrounded by plants or out on a forest trail in my nervous system. Being in nature automatically calms me down; I breath easier. I feel more relaxed. I am more at ease.

Here are the top 10 house plants I recommend for cleaning your air:

Snake Plant also called Mother in Law’s Tongue

1. Snake Plant: Known for its ability to purify the air and thrive in low-light conditions.

Spider Plant

2. Spider Plant: Easy to care for and great for air purification.

Peace Lily

3. Peace Lily: A beautiful plant that's also great for air purification and can help reduce stress.

Dracaena

4. Dracaena: A versatile plant that can grow up to 10 feet tall and purify the air.

Philodendron

5. Philodendron: A popular houseplant that's great for air purification and can thrive in a variety of lighting conditions.

Aloe Vera Plant

6. Aloe Vera: A medicinal plant that's great for soothing burns and purifying the air.

Bamboo Plant

7. Bamboo Palm: A plant that's known for its ability to purify the air and promote relaxation.

Ivy

8. English Ivy: A versatile plant that can be trained to climb or trail, and is great for air purification.

Rubber Plant

9. Rubber Plant: A stylish plant that's great for air purification and can thrive in low-light conditions.

Ferns

10. Boston Fern: A lush plant that's great for air purification and can add a touch of tropical elegance to any room.

A Personal Story

I have a deep affection for peace lilies, and it's not just because of their stunning beauty. For me, they evoke memories of my childhood home, where my mom would lovingly tend to them in our dining room. I can still picture the large leafed plant with white, tear-shaped petals sitting by the bay window, its elegance captivating me as a child. My fascination with the blooms was tempered by the knowledge that touching them would discolor their delicate petals, making them all the more alluring.

When my mom passed away, my dad brought three large peace lilies to her memorial, and the one he gave me has been a source of comfort for me ever since. Watching them bloom is a reminder of the love and connection we shared. My dad's love for plants is contagious, and I think it's where I inherited my own passion for them. He's always nurturing something new, whether it's in his yard, on his porch, or on his windowsill. When he brought me a Stargazer peace lily for Easter, it brought immense joy to my home. The beauty, fragrance, and cheerfulness of the blooms are a constant reminder of the love and thoughtfulness behind the gift.

One of the things I love most about plants is the way they can evoke memories and emotions. When someone gives you a plant as a gift, it's not just a gesture of kindness – it's a personal connection to the giver. The plant becomes a symbol of their love, care, and thoughtfulness. And as you care for the plant, you're reminded of the person who gave it to you, creating a sense of connection and memory.

But plants do more than just evoke memories – they also have a profound impact on our well-being. Studies have shown that flowers can trigger the release of serotonin and other "happy" chemicals in the brain, such as dopamine and oxytocin. These chemicals can help reduce stress, increase happiness, and trigger feelings of excitement and bonding. So, if you want to feel happier, bring some flowers into your home and stop to smell them – literally!

For me, the gift of plants is a reminder of the love and connection we share with others. It's a way to keep memories alive and to experience the joy and happiness that comes with nurturing something beautiful. Whether it's a peace lily, an orchid, or any other plant, the gift of plants is a personal and meaningful way to show love and care for someone.

The Peace Lilly my dad gave me after my mom’s memorial.

Finding the Perfect Plant

If you're in Birmingham, Alabama, I highly recommend checking out The Leaf and Petal behind The Summit for a wide selection of unique plants. You can also visit The Home Depot for a vast array of plants and great deals. I love scouring their sale rack for discounted plant gems – you never know what hidden treasures you might find for yourself or for a friend!

Recent Leaf & Petal finds

Caring for Your Plants

While plants are amazing for all the reasons I have mentioned, I have learned they do require some care and maintenance. Make sure to water them regularly, prune them when necessary, and provide them with the right amount of sunlight. I am still learning how to balance these depending on the plant. And I have sadly seen more that one plant die on my watch. But it’s fun to learn new things. Some plants, like orchids, require more attention, but the reward is worth it! If you are interested in cleaning the air in your home and experiencing some of these amazing benefits, but aren’t able to get out, you may want to check out online options for getting your plants. Early in my healing journey, I was too sick to go out shopping, and so I got my starter kit of air cleaning plants on Amazon from Costa Farms. They were small, but lovely and easy to care for. Plus I got a free subscription to a plant care app for several months as a free bonus from Costa Farms with my purchase!

Great set of air purifying plants I started with come shipped directly to you.

But what if you're on a tight budget? Don't worry, we've got you covered!

If you're looking to score some free plants, try checking out your local "Buy Nothing" page on Facebook or the "Free" section on the Nextdoor Neighbor app. You might be surprised to find that people are giving away plants for free, as long as you're willing to pick them up!

This is a great way to not only get some beautiful plants but also connect with your community and reduce waste.

Share Your Favorite Indoor Plants!

I'm curious to know what your favorite indoor plants are! Share a photo of your favorite plant on social media using the hashtag #MyFavIndoorPlants, and don't forget to tag me!

Get Out and Walk in Nature

In addition to bringing plants indoors, make sure to get out and walk in nature whenever you can. Whether it's a forest, park, or simply a walk around your neighborhood, nature has the power to transform your health and well-being. I especially enjoy a morning or sunset walk. It always makes me feel better.

So, what are you waiting for? Get outside, bring some plants indoors, and start experiencing the healing power of nature for yourself!

Fun fact: Did you know that plants can even help reduce stress and anxiety by lowering cortisol levels? It's true! So, go ahead and get planting – your body (and mind) will thank you!