Stress Reduction and Psychological Well-being

One of the most well-documented benefits of indoor plants is their ability to reduce stress and improve psychological well-being. In one study, researchers examined the stress-reducing effects of indoor plants in hospital rooms. Their findings revealed that indoor plants not only increase the perceived attractiveness but also reduce stress levels among patients and healthcare workers (1). This is particularly relevant in physiotherapy clinics, where patients may be grappling with pain, anxiety, and frustration as they undergo rehabilitation.

Moreover, recent articles have highlighted the psychological benefits of indoor plants, including enhanced pain management, improved mood, and reduced physical discomfort (2-3).  Where this may play the most significant role is in the initial visit. It is during this first appointment where patients are more likely to be in the greatest state of distress. By positively influencing their mood and pain reports, a greater therapeutic alliance between clinician and patient can be established enabling the clinician to conduct a more thorough assessment.

Improving Indoor Air Quality

But the benefits of indoor plants extend beyond psychological well-being. They also play a crucial role in improving indoor air quality, which is particularly relevant in physiotherapy clinics where respiratory health is paramount. As highlighted in one study, indoor plants have the ability to remove pollutants such as volatile organic compounds from the air, thereby creating a healthier and more conducive space for healing (4). By purifying the air and increasing oxygen levels, indoor plants contribute to a cleaner, more breathable environment for patients and practitioners alike. This is especially important in physiotherapy clinics, where patients may have compromised respiratory function due to injury or illness.

So what types of plants are best suited for physiotherapy clinics? According to the NASA Clean Air Study, certain plants have been found to be particularly effective at removing indoor air pollutants and improving air quality (5). These include species such as spider plants, peace lilies, and snake plants, which are not only beautiful to look at but also offer tangible health benefits for patients and staff alike.

Cognitive Function and Productivity

In addition to improving air quality and reducing stress, indoor plants have been shown to positively impact cognitive function and productivity. A systematic review by Han, Ruan, and Liao (2022) examined the effects of indoor plants on human functions and found that plants can significantly benefit participants’ academic achievement and cognitive performance (6). Another study found when subjects were asked to complete a 5 minute task, the presence of a plant in the room led to significantly lower patient perceived anxiety as related to the task (7). This has important implications for clinics, where patients undergo significant cognitive demands as they learn about the mechanisms and undying causes of their injury or are challenged with new motor skills. By creating a space that is conducive to concentration and focus, indoor plants can enhance the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions and support patients in reaching their rehabilitation goals.

The Healing Power of Nature

But perhaps the most profound benefit of indoor plants in physiotherapy clinics is their ability to connect us to nature, even in the most artificial of environments. As noted by Han and Ruan (2019), indoor plants increase positive emotions and reduce negative feelings, creating a sense of calm and well-being among those who interact with them (8). In urban environments, it can be easy to distance ourselves with the greater environment. Providing greenery within a clinical space serves to remind our community of our role as stewards of the planet.

Conclusion

The integration of indoor plants into physiotherapy clinics holds great promise for enhancing the healing experience for patients and practitioners alike. From reducing stress and anxiety to improving air quality and cognitive function, the therapeutic benefits of greenery are clear. By creating a space that is both healing and nurturing, physiotherapy clinics can empower patients on their journey toward recovery and well-being. So let’s embrace the power of plants and cultivate spaces that promote healing from the inside out.

References

Bringslimark, T., Hartig, T., & Patil, G. (2009). The psychological benefits of indoor plants: A critical review of the experimental literature. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 29, 422-433. https://doi.org/10.1016/J.JENVP.2009.05.001

Dijkstra, K., Pieterse, M., & Pruyn, A. (2008). Stress-reducing effects of indoor plants in the built healthcare environment: The mediating role of perceived attractiveness. Preventive Medicine, 47(3), 279-283. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ypmed.2008.01.013

Han, K., & Ruan, L. (2019). Effects of indoor plants on self-reported perceptions: A systemic review. Sustainability. https://doi.org/10.3390/SU11164506

Han, K., Ruan, L., & Liao, L. (2022). Effects of indoor plants on human functions: A systematic review with meta-analyses. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19127454

Hassan, A., Qi-bing, C., Ying-gao, L., Tao, J., Li, G., Jiang, M., Nian, L., Bing-Yang, L., & Shiliang, L. (2020). Do plants affect brainwaves? Effect of indoor plants in work environment on mental stress. European Journal of Horticultural Science. https://doi.org/10.17660/ejhs.2020/85.4.9 ​

Moya, T., Dobbelsteen, A., Ottelé, M., & Bluyssen, P. (2018). A review of green systems within the indoor environment. Indoor and Built Environment, 28, 298-309. https://doi.org/10.1177/1420326X18783042

Wolverton, B. C., Douglas, W. L., & Bounds, K. (1989). Interior landscape plants for indoor air pollution abatement. NASA Technical Memorandum 101766. NASA.