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It should be made official; January is houseplant month. There's a feeling of emptiness in the post Christmas season after the Christmas tree comes down. The home immediately misses that big beautiful, lush green tree that took center stage in so much celebration. A home's interior can feel as stark as the winter scenery looks outside. The easy way to chase away these winter blues is to add some green back into the scene. Nothing adds visual beauty to an environment faster than houseplants. They're an inexpensive way to add texture and drama to a room by creating a living space that's relaxing to be in with a low to moderate investment of money and time. It's easy and fun to make your own private sanctuary; and whether you have a green thumb or black one, there's a plant to match your skill level at growing things. It is wonderfully therapeutic to care for another living thing, especially one that only gives you rewards. Caring for a houseplant is a natural antidepressant. It's a reminder to tune into your environment and is an exercise in hope. In an age when everyone is plugged into a life among electronic gadgets, seeing greenery helps us feel calmer and more relaxed. There are practical benefits to houseplants as well. Houseplants are good for your health. They refresh the air we breathe by releasing oxygen. They also filter out harmful toxins given off by the furnishings and carpets we live with. Increased levels of oxygen means improved levels of concentration, productivity, and creativity. Houseplants add to our overall happiness and longevity. Without plants we wouldn't exist at all; yet many of us take them for granted. However, there is no denying their importance to our well being; so, the more you add to your interior spaces the better. |
