Have you ever heard of forest bathing or Shinrin-yoku? No, it’s not skinny dipping in the moonlight or chilling at an outdoor spa, it is the process of immersing yourself in nature.
Since Shinrin-yoku’s 1980s inception, it has been studied and proven to be an all-natural way of reducing stress and increasing vitality. Alright, so maybe it’s only Monday afternoon, and you’re five days away from your Saturday hiking day trip.
Why not bring all the benefits of Shinrin-yoku, of being surrounded by nature, to your indoor space? We have compiled a list of five houseplants that will transform your living room, office, or even playroom into a calming Eden of green and improve air quality.
Peace Lily
Ever been disappointed by plants that seem to fade away because you’ve forgotten to water them quickly? The Peace Lily will not disappoint. Consider the Peace Lily as an excellent candidate for a starter plant. It’s ultra-low maintenance and doesn’t require full sunshine or wet soil to thrive.
These conditions are important to note if your space isn’t in an all-day sun or you’re too busy to regularly water. Bonus, the flower it produces is elegant and long-lasting, and the leaves remove some contaminants.
Why you’ll love this: Actively removes pollutants in the air as well as gives off moisture in the air.
Snake Plant
I admit I purchased a Snake Plant solely because it appeared in Don Draper’s (from the show Mad Men) swinging sixties apartment. Maybe you haven’t seen the episode, but there are yellow-lined and green-striped Snake Plants in the entranceway, standing tall in a rectangular planter. They look so, so cool! Like the Peace Lily, the Snake Plant doesn’t need much light. However, it will take off if it’s in full sun. It only requires water when the soil is dry. If vintage planters fit your style, make sure to check them out on eBay.
Why you’ll love this: Converts carbon dioxide into oxygen at night. Station one in your bedroom.
Aloe Vera
Find a sunny spot for this next plant, because Aloe Vera loves the sun! It’s hardy and drought resistant, so if you forget to water, Aloe Vera will forgive you. I’ve seen stalks of Aloe Vera cut and applied to kitchen burns, but I’d rather apply a topical cream instead as the stalk will appear cauterized and not grow back.
Think the Aloe Vera plant seems a bit plain? Add a layer of decorative river rock stones. These smooth, mini stones will give your plants a landscaped look.
Why you’ll love this: Promotes clean air by removing chemical-based pollutants (formaldehyde and benzene) which can be found in cleaners, paints, and other household products you have.
Rubber Plant
Looking for more of challenge? Try this next plant. The Rubber Plant is deceiving because it starts off small, but if well-cared for it will grow tree-like. Indirect sunlight and a well-drained pot are the perfect conditions for a successful Rubber Plant. The leaves are brilliantly shiny due to the latex the Rubber Plant secretes. Interesting, right?
The Rubber Plant will look attractive and purify the air by drawing in contaminants like the Peace Lily. Make sure to keep repotting the Rubber Plant as it ascends vertically. Find a flower pot in any material desired, such as metal, plastic, or clay here.
Why you’ll love this: Purifies the air by absorbing contaminants via their large leaves as well as having anti-bacterial properties that will reduce mold and bacteria airborne.
Succulents
Succulents have become wildly popular, even appearing in wedding reception tablescapes. Maybe it’s because they require little water and part-sun to full-sun and not much else. Try picking up the variety Hen and Chicks. This succulent will actually grow offspring!
A terrarium of Hen and Chicks will look chic on a coffee table. Choose from geometric terrariums, globe terrariums, or even vintage terrariums to make a statement. Rather hang your Hen and Chicks? Check out these hanging and wall mounted terrariums.
Why you’ll love this: Seriously, what’s not to love about succulents?
Not only are these succulents and houseplants visually soothing, but they will also be a spiritual balm until your last hour of work on Friday. Don’t hesitate to surround yourself. Bring the outdoors indoors and find the houseplants that will brighten up your space here.
This post was written as part of our collaboration with eBay.