Biophilia: The innate human instinct to connect with nature and other living beings.

Some will describe Biophilia as “the passionate love of life and of all that is alive.” Enjoying nature and being outside with the plants, trees, and flowers is what makes us yearn for these same living forms in our homes or office.

Do you have houseplants? Did you know that houseplants are not just fun and make your home look good, they are also beneficial to your health.

Research shows that indoor plants help rid the air of common toxins and indoor pollutants. That alone is a reason to fill your home with lots of plants! All you need is 6-8 medium to large plants throughout a large room to make a noticeable difference in the air quality.

Boost your well-being. Houseplants can do wonders for your mental health. “We evolved on earth amongst the grasslands surrounded by trees and plants,” says John Beirne, HTR, horticultural therapy instructor at the New York Botanical Garden and superintendent of horticulture at Willowwood Arboretum. “It is no wonder they make us feel at home—for eons they have fed our bodies and our souls.”

Plants can ease your stress. When we are potting plants and caring for them, these acts can help us forget about some of the stressful things in our lives. It makes us feel accomplished when we take care of something and take ownership of it. The act of nurture and care brings joy and satisfaction.

Plants can promote healing. They are seeing a close relationship between plants and individuals recovering from illness or injury. Research has found that patients with plants in their rooms required less pain medication and had lower blood pressure and felt less anxiety.

Plants are essential. They provide food, fiber, building materials, fuel, and pharmaceuticals.

For thousands of years, people have grown plants in containers and brought them into their homes. IndieMe has several ceramic artists that make beautiful planting pots or vases for your cut flowers. Add more plants to your home and/or store and reap the benefits.