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Experiencing nature wherever you live is important for reasons beyond your personal health too.
María Jesús Contreras
Thing is, sometimes you cant get outside as much as youd likeor at all.
Or perhaps you live in an urban area thats surrounded by skyscrapers and concrete instead of trees and grass.
Or maybe you simply havent made it a habit.
Whatever the reason, its all too common to feel like nature in your life is lacking.
Thats where indoor nature comes in.
Ahead, all you should probably know.
The impact is not exactly the same as outdoor nature, says Siegfried.
But it does have many, many health benefits.
You just cant help it but be in the present moment, she explains.
(WELL and LEED accreditations signify expertise in sustainable design that enhances health and wellness.)
For one, indoor nature can broaden your understanding of what counts as nature.
We are conditioned to think that nature is something out there, and we are here.
And to get to be in nature, we have to go out there, says Siegfried.
The following expert-backed tips are easy to implement, and in some cases, 100% free!
But you wont get the best benefit by sticking a plant in a corner and calling it a day.
The key is to interact with your new roomie mindfully.
If you want your indoor greenery to serve an extra function, consider potted herb plants.
(Biophilic design is a philosophy that aims to support well-being.)
Research supports the notion that plants can make you feel better.
And if youre a certified plant killer or simply dont have great natural light?
you might still reap some benefits from buying an artificial version instead, says Lomas.
Simply open up a window or several in your home and enjoy the fresh breeze.
For an extra boost, take 10 minutes to observe whats going on outside one of those windows.
Notice whats in motion, says Kuang.
Just be there and see what unfolds around you, says Kuang.
As for the observation?
This simple exercise in focusing your attention can create a deep sense of relaxation, says Kuang.
It brings people back to the here and now versus the constant Whats the next destination?
Whats the next task?
What do I need to plan for dinner?
Set up a small water feature in your house, suggests Kuang.
You want to look for things that allow for flowing water, such as a mini fountain.
Collect a basket of nature items.
These can be shells, pinecones, rocks, dried flowers, a cool piece of barkanything, really.
Rocks in particular can be super grounding, says Siegfried.
Thats why she recommends mindful interaction with them, similar to with the houseplants above.
This exercise may sound hokey, but people just have the most amazing experiences, says Siegfried.
All of these materials have different textures that can provide a unique experience to explore nature via touch.
The less refined and treated, the better, says Lomas.
This will ensure youre getting as much natural light through your windows as possible, she explains.
