It’s human nature to feel calmer and happier when we’re close to nature, and that’s exactly why you can’t underestimate the importance of indoor plants for an office space. Did you also know that indoor plants can have an equally positive effect on the workers? Numerous studies show that indoor plant benefits include reduced stress and enhanced focus. Greenery such as outdoor plants, vertical gardens, and plants in the office have been linked to higher employee satisfaction, creativity, and overall morale, making indoor plants a simple yet effective way to create a more positive and productive workspace. Let’s explore some of the general advantages of indoor plants within an office environment.
7 Health Benefits of Indoor Plants for the Office
Of course, we’re all familiar with the aesthetic advantages of indoor plants and flowers and their ability to transform a boring old workplace into a chic, modern haven that can make work all that more enjoyable. Integrating indoor plants into your office design is just one way that you can create a vibrant and engaging workspace, making it more appealing for both current and prospective employees.
But what are the benefits of indoor plants apart from their stunning appearance?
Beyond just looking great, indoor plants can help reduce noise, they are an affordable way to divide space areas without renovating, they can balance indoor humidity levels (especially in air-conditioned or heated environments), and choosing indoor plants over artificial decor reduces the reliance on chemical air fresheners and plastic decorations, contributing to a more sustainable and eco-friendly environment.
And there are also plenty of ways that indoor plants can create a healthier environment that supports both the mind and body. Let’s take a closer look at some of the positive health benefits of indoor plants.
By introducing greenery into your home or office, you can enjoy the full range of indoor plant benefits for both physical and mental health. Such as:
1. Improved air quality
Plants naturally filter toxins and pollutants from the air, removing harmful substances such as formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide, which are often found in office furniture, carpets, and electronics. Cleaner air reduces headaches, fatigue, and respiratory issues, leading to a healthier work environment.
2. Increased oxygen levels
Plants increase workplace productivity. Through photosynthesis, plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, improving air circulation and helping employees feel more alert and energised. Higher oxygen levels can reduce feelings of sluggishness, promoting better focus and overall wellbeing.
3. Humidity regulation
Indoor office spaces, especially those with air conditioning or heating, often suffer from low humidity, which can cause dry skin, irritated eyes, and respiratory discomfort. Plants release moisture into the air through transpiration, naturally increasing humidity levels and reducing throat irritation, dry eyes, and congestion.
4. Reduced risk of illness and sick days
Studies have shown that offices with plants experience fewer cases of absenteeism due to illnesses like colds and flu. Plants help reduce airborne bacteria and dust, creating a cleaner workspace that lowers the spread of germs among employees.
5. Lower blood pressure and reduced physical stress
Research from universities in the USA and Norway shows that workers who are surrounded by indoor plants or flowers are happier and more productive. Being around greenery has been linked to lower blood pressure and reduced physical tension. The natural presence of indoor plants for stress relief can have a calming effect, helping employees feel more at ease and reducing the physical symptoms of workplace stress, such as muscle tension and fatigue.
6. Fewer headaches and eye strain
Plants can help reduce glare and visual fatigue by balancing indoor lighting and preventing harsh reflections from screens. Additionally, improved air quality and humidity levels reduce the likelihood of headaches and eye irritation, which are common complaints in office environments.
7. Faster recovery from physical fatigue
The physical health benefits of indoor plants are also hugely beneficial to anyone working in an office setting. Workplaces can be mentally and physically exhausting, but studies suggest that being around plants can help employees recover from fatigue faster. The presence of greenery can help lower cortisol levels (stress hormone), improve overall energy levels, and create a more restorative work environment.
The importance of indoor plants for creativity
While creativity isn’t strictly part of our health, we all could use a bit more creativity in our lives – especially when we’re working. A 2015 study from Texas A&M University found that indoor plants can increase our creativity by an incredible 15% within a workplace.
Surprised? There are numerous theories behind the idea of why humans feel much more inspired when surrounded by nature. One theory posits that our ancestors felt calmer in nature because it meant that they were near food sources. Another study conducted by Ludwig-Maximilians-University in Munich proposed that the green colour of plants is closely intertwined with creative thinking.
But whatever the reason, we all have felt the wave of creativity that comes over us when we find ourselves in an aesthetically pleasing environment that fuels our curiosity and demands our attention. Indoor plants and living art installations are a fantastic way to add a healthy dose of creativity into our workplace, ensuring that it stands out as a place that people want to work in.
Experience the benefits of indoor plants firsthand
Want a natural way to boost wellness? Indoor plant benefits include stress reduction, improved air quality, and increased creativity.
If you’re interested in including or maintaining indoor plants in your office space and don’t know how to get started, The Plant Man is happy to help! You can find plenty of useful information on our blog, or explore creative examples of how plants can improve an office space by heading to the gallery.
Or, to find out more about our services, please contact us, and we’d love to show you all the advantages of indoor plants for your office space.
