We learn how green therapy boosts mental health.
Exploring the healing power of green therapy (nature), whether through the tranquillity of a garden or the presence of plants in your home has many benefits. Whether you’re gardening or tending to indoor plants, caring for living things can serve as a powerful reminder of the care you need to show yourself.
A time for personal growth and mental clarity
Green therapy provides a direct link between your environment and your mental health, offering both peace and purpose.
“Spring is an ideal time to reflect on your mental health,” says Kgomotso Sebeela, Mental Health Professional and Specialist Wellness Counsellor at Kena Health. “Whether it’s by working in a garden or nurturing plants indoors, plants play a crucial role in creating environments that nurture mental resilience, encourage mindfulness, and an appreciation for slow, steady growth—all qualities that are essential for mental well-being.”
Outdoor gardening offers an opportunity to engage with the earth, physically grounding you while reducing anxiety. “Digging into soil, planting seeds, and watching them grow can be incredibly therapeutic,” says Kgomotso.
She adds that spending time outdoors also increases exposure to sunlight, boosting mood and improving overall mental health. On the other hand, the care of bonsais and succulents indoors brings nature into your personal spaces, encouraging mindfulness with every watering or trimming.
Green therapy benefits: indoors and outdoors
In 2023, the University of Reading conducted a study with the Royal Horticultural Society to investigate the psychological responses to house plants. The study concluded that plants with lush green leaves, high leaf areas and dense canopies are likely to give the biggest boost to your well-being. In addition, research from Japan also found that the presence of leafy plants can enhance creativity in workplace tasks.
The act of nurturing a plant, big or small, can create a sense of routine and purpose, offering a meaningful connection to nature. “Caring for plants gives you a much-needed break from the pressures of modern life,” explains Kgomotso. “Tending to them helps you slow down and centre your thoughts.”
The outdoors also helps engage all your senses. The sound of birds, the smell of flowers, the feeling of soil—each sensory experience promoting mindfulness. Being indoors also offers a similar sense of tranquillity, providing a rewarding routine that fosters a sense of achievement and purpose.
The mindful practice of gardening
Gardening, whether outdoors or indoors, encourages you to slow down, focus on the moment, and immerse yourself in the simple act of nurturing life.
“The process of caring for plants encourages you to be present, to pay attention to details, and to appreciate small moments of progress,” says Kgomosto. “Our team of therapists and mental health counsellors at Kena Health often advise patients to incorporate greenery and plant life into their homes as a way to boost mental wellness – it makes a world of difference.”
Header image by FreePik