And just like that, school is starting! While this year will look a lot different than previous years, one thing will stay the same: students will need to study and a place to do so. Sometimes, it can be challenging to stay motivated to work at home, but adding some houseplants to your study place can help!
In the 80s, NASA conducted studies to see how effective houseplants are at purifying the air in spacecrafts. The research showed some plants can filter out volatile compounds from the air. These compounds can be found in home items, such as carpets, cleaning products, and paints. NASA released a list of air-purifying plants that efficiently absorb these compounds, which they synthesize into fuel. And after taking in these chemicals, the plants release oxygen, meaning our bodies and brains get a healthy, focus-boosting dose of fresh air!
Studies have shown that views of nature, whether through an office window or a few feet away on your desk, can improve concentration and productivity. One study from the University of Michigan even showed a 20% increase in attention span after people spent an hour in nature. That means there’s real evidence that creating an indoor nature park will help you or your children cut down on those late-night cram sessions!
Other research has shown plants can increase creativity as well. Beyond these studies, all we have to do is look to all the famous artists and poets who have been inspired by nature. Think back to a time when the natural world surrounded you—maybe it was a walk in your local park or a trip to the lake—and you’ll likely agree that it helped clear your mind or inspire some ideas.
Gardening can be a form of therapy, where you create a place of sanctuary. The same goes for our indoor gardens. Adding plants to your learning space is also a fun way to personalize the area so that you have something to look at other than just your screen and a wall. Besides choosing various plants to add to your desk or workspace, you can select a collection of interesting pots to show off your personality. Bonus: you’ll have an A+ video call backdrop!
So often during our days, we go through tasks on autopilot, not really thinking about what we’re doing. But caring for the plants in your study space can be a form of mindfulness practice, encouraging you to think about what you’re doing, where you are, and how you’re feeling. Plus, setting time aside to inspect the plant for new growth or other changes is a great way to work breaks into your day.
Do you or your kids have a presentation coming up? Who better to practise in front of than those who have been with you through the late nights and early mornings—your houseplants! They won’t exactly provide any constructive criticism, but they will give you an excuse to rehearse or study out loud, helping you get over any jitters and hammer out in any last-minute facts you need to know.
Here are some of our favourite low-maintenance plants to include in your study space. Also, keep in mind how the area is set up; some spaces call for low-light options.
As you start to set up your study area at home, stop by Royal City Nursery or order online. Finally, a school-related project that won’t make you want to procrastinate!
