The Healing Benefits Of Becoming A ‘Plant Parent’

More than ever, people from different walks of life have become proud “plant parents” as a way to unlock inner peace and transform their homes.

Woman surrounded by plants
Photos by RDNE Stock project and Huy Phan | Photo design by BrownStyle Magazine

Plants can instantly bring life and joy into your home. More than ever, people from different walks of life have become proud “plant parents” as a way to unlock inner peace and transform their home into a sanctuary filled with serenity. Some plant enthusiasts have even gone so far as to launch businesses centered around their love for houseplants. 

“I’ve always loved nature, both indoors and out,” shares Jodyann Morgan, founder of CTOAN Co., a lifestyle brand that specializes in 3D-printed planters and candles that celebrate the beauty of natural full-figured bodies. “Since I started my business during the pandemic, I’ve had plenty of time to care for my plants. My indoor garden is quite extensive!”

Jodyann Morgan, founder of CTOAN Co. holding a spider plant
Photo courtesy of McKenna Patterson

CTOAN Co. has quickly gained popularity amongst celebrities, influencers, and “fat art enthusiasts” who enjoy caring for plants and understand the many benefits of the beautiful green companions, which include providing much-needed oxygen and uplifting your mood.

Want to know the additional benefits of becoming a plant parent? Below, we asked BrownStyle Magazine’s Home Decor Expert Erica Dike to share some of the top benefits of adding plants to your home. From purifying the air to fostering a sense of mindfulness, find out how the humble houseplant can be a powerful ally in the pursuit of a healthier and happier lifestyle. 

🌿Boost Your Mood

Houseplants are not just aesthetically pleasing, they also have a positive impact on our mental well-being. According to Dike, “Incorporating plants in your home will liven up your space by creating a visually pleasing and calming atmosphere. The vibrant greenery and natural elements induce a sense of tranquility to create a spa-like peaceful sanctuary.” 

🌿 Purify The Air In Your Home

“Plants aren’t only nice to look at, they’re also natural air purifiers,” the Principal Interior Designer of Erica of Ooh Designs reminds us. “By absorbing pollutants and releasing oxygen (photosynthesis, hello sixth-grade science), they help create a healthier and more refreshing environment in your home.”

Common houseplants such as snake plants, spider plants, and pothos are particularly effective in filtering out harmful toxins.

Woman sitting in her room with plants and her dog
Photo by Samson Katt

🌿Find Peace In Your Nurturing Side

The power of plants is real. Bringing a touch of nature indoors has a calming effect on the human psyche. “The gentle presence of plants has a profound impact on your mental well-being, reducing stress and promoting relaxation,” says Dike. “They remind us to slow down. To pause and water them. To take a moment and observe their growth. To appreciate their beauty as we pass by.”

🌿 Enjoy Better Sleep

Dike says that adding greenery to the bedroom promotes peace and relaxation. “To create a peaceful setting in your bedroom, add lavender and jasmine. Both of these plants emit calming scents that can improve sleep quality,” she shares.

🌿 Supercharge Your Productivity

Plants in the workplace have been associated with increased productivity and concentration, making them valuable companions in home offices or study spaces. “I think it has to do with the air purification and vibrant colors,” says Dike. “Plants have a calming effect on stress, and when you’re less stressed, you can concentrate better.”

Computer on a table next to plants
Photo by Pixabay

🌿 Unlock Your Creativity

Dike also highly recommends adding plants in your workspace as a great way to freshen up the atmosphere and fuel your creativity. “The natural colors and elements add life—literally— to the dullness of a workspace,” the home decor expert insists. 

She also believes that plants have a subtle way of reminding you that everything starts small. “A plant was once just a seed, and now here it is, thriving. Plants can help you give birth to new ideas,” she adds. 

How To Choose Your House Plant

Plants in a dining room
Photo by Erica Dike

Thinking of becoming a plant parent? Go for it! 

Before shopping for a new green companion, Dike recommends doing your research and choosing plants that match your vibe and personality— especially since they will truly become members of your family.

“Designate a place in your home that gets enough sunlight and allows you to showcase them in the best light—no pun intended. Do that and you’ll go from just adding a plant to creating a unique and inviting haven within your home,” she tells us with enthusiasm. 

For those with busy schedules, Dike suggests finding a low-maintenance houseplant that thrives with minimal care like succulents, dracaena, or pothos. “Simple tasks like watering and occasional pruning are often sufficient to keep them flourishing,” she concludes.

Editor’s Note: This story has been edited and condensed for clarity.  

Heather Elitou is the Senior Managing Editor at BrownStyle Magazine, where her expertise has led to the publication's success. A devoted mother of three brilliant young women and a loving wife, she finds joy in nurturing her family. Beyond her professional and family life, Heather enjoys savoring the delights of a well-crafted cheese board. She is also known for her love of soulful conversations about living a soft life.