Do you know plants can boost your mood and make you happier? Even a small amount of time spent with plants can lower cortisol levels and reduce your stress. Including greenery in our house or workplace has numerous benefits that go beyond just aesthetics. This approach of incorporating our leafy friends into the workplace is supported by many studies and aligns with biophilic design, an innovative approach to architecture and interior design that connects humans more closely with nature. Here, we'll explore the various advantages of having indoor plants for offices and give you reasons to add more greenery around you.
What is Biophilic Design?
Biophilic design focuses on the fact that we as human beings have a primal instinct to be in contact with nature and it tries to bring nature into the spaces we build. In a nutshell, biophilic design is the process of incorporating aspects of the natural environment, including indoor plants, natural light, and organic material into our interior spaces with an aim of positively influencing our well-being and productivity. Use of plants in workspaces is one of the initiatory concepts under this design ideology, as it is an effortless method of incorporating nature into our working environments.
Benefits of Greenery in the Workplace
-
Plants Can Increase Productivity
According to a study, there was a 15% increase in productivity for over three months among people who worked in an office with natural greenery. Many big corporates prefer to use plants for productivity. The presence of plants can make the office environment more pleasant and stimulating, which can enhance focus and efficiency. People who work in green spaces have been found to be more satisfied with their jobs than their counterparts who do not have green surroundings and are also likely to maintain focus on their work.
-
Plants Improve Air Quality
One of the benefits of office plants is their ability to enhance air quality. Houseplants clean the air by removing indoor pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene from the atmosphere. They also release oxygen, which helps increase the oxygen levels in your workspace. Thus, this leads to fewer respiratory-related diseases, fewer headaches, and better general health. According to studies, plants can significantly lower the concentration of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the air, creating a cleaner and healthier environment.
-
Reduced Stress Levels
Plants in the workplace are essential for reducing stress. Studies have shown that exposure to the natural environment decreases the level of cortisol, a stress hormone in the body. A study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that individuals who interacted with plants experienced lower levels of stress and anxiety. The calming effect of plants can create a more relaxed work atmosphere, helping employees manage stress and improve their overall well-being.
-
Enhanced Creativity and Cognitive Function
Indoor plants for the office can stimulate creativity and cognitive function. Studies have shown that individuals working in environments with plants display increased creativity and enhanced problem-solving skills. The presence of greenery can also boost cognitive function by enhancing concentration and memory. The natural beauty of plants can provide a refreshing change from the often-monotonous office environment, inspiring creative thinking and innovative solutions.
-
Better Mental Health
Maintaining indoor plants for work can significantly affect mental health. The act of caring for plants provides a sense of accomplishment and connection, which is particularly advantageous in high-stress settings. A study from the Journal of Physiological Anthropology found that engaging with plants can lead to improved mood and reduced feelings of fatigue. Plants can also serve as a gentle reminder to take breaks and reconnect with nature, which can enhance mental clarity and reduce feelings of burnout.
-
Reduced Noise Levels
In addition to their air-purifying qualities, plants can help lower noise levels in the office. Plants act as natural sound absorbers, helping to minimize the impact of background noise and create a quieter work environment. This can be particularly effective in places of work with an open space design since there might be a lot of noise disruptions. By reducing noise levels, employees can concentrate better and work more competently without being disturbed and distracted.
-
Aesthetically Pleasing Environment
One of the most obvious benefits of indoor plants is their contribution to the visual appeal of your workspace. Plants bring a touch of natural beauty to the office, creating a more inviting and enjoyable work environment. A well-designed plant arrangement can enhance the overall ambiance of the office, creating a more attractive and motivating environment. Employees are often more enthusiastic about working in spaces that are aesthetically pleasing and suit their personal tastes.
-
Improved Employee Satisfaction
The presence of plants in the workplace can result in increased employee satisfaction and morale. Employees appreciate efforts to create a supportive and enjoyable work environment, and the inclusion of greenery can be seen as a sign of a caring and considerate employer. Studies have indicated that employees in plant-filled environments are more likely to feel valued and satisfied with their workplace, which can result in lower turnover rates and higher overall engagement.
-
Healthier Work Environment
Incorporating plants into your workspace can contribute to a healthier overall environment. It is important to take care of your mental health, and plants are a natural cure for it. Plants can assist in regulating humidity by adding moisture to the air, which can reduce dryness and irritation. This is especially helpful in offices where air conditioning or heating systems tend to dry out the air. Healthier humidity levels can help prevent respiratory issues and maintain comfortable conditions for employees.
-
Encouragement of Breaks and Interaction
Plants can inspire employees to take regular breaks and interact with their environment. Engaging in plant care provides a moment for short, relaxing breaks, allowing employees to recharge and come back to their tasks with renewed energy and focus. Additionally, plants can promote social interactions among employees, enhancing a sense of community and collaboration in the workplace, while contributing to a more positive and cooperative work environment.
Choosing the Right Plants for Your Workspace
When choosing indoor plants for your office, consider factors like light conditions, space limitations, and maintenance needs. Some popular options for office plants include:
- Snake Plant: Low-maintenance and effective at purifying the air.
- Pothos: Adaptable and thrives in various light conditions.
- Peace Lily: Known for its air-purifying qualities and beautiful blooms.
- Spider Plant: Easy to care for and excellent at removing indoor pollutants.
Conclusion
Introducing greenery into the workplace is not just a trend or décor accessory; it is a great strategy for increasing office staff health, productivity, and morale. The list of advantages of using office plants reveals that their impact spreads across a wide range of aspects of life, starting with the quality of the air we breathe and ending with the quality of our thoughts. Thus, incorporating small elements of nature into the employees’ working space will improve the quality of the environment and, as a result, increase efficiency and people’s satisfaction.
