Although bringing nature indoors is beneficial throughout the year, the following suggestions can be especially helpful during the winter when there are darker and more overcast days.
Indoor Plants
Indoor plants help our overall wellness by reducing stress and depression, boosting our mood, increasing productivity, improving concentration and memory retention, creating a sense of purpose and routine, and enhancing air quality.
Photos of Nature
Studies have found that images of nature can improve your mood. Consider putting an image on the background of your phone, computer or tablet or framing images to hang on your wall.
Videos and Sounds of Nature
Similar to viewing images of nature, studies have shown that watching short videos of nature can reduce stress. Consider taking 3-5 minutes a few days a week to watch a short video of nature. Perhaps you want to create a playlist of videos. To boost the benefit, choose ones that also include the sounds of nature such as birds or water flowing.
Light Therapy Lamps
During certain times of the year, we get less exposure to sunlight. Light therapy lamps mimic natural sunlight, which can help with fatigue, anxiety, or depression. It order to get the full benefits, it is recommended to use them for at least 30 minutes daily. Reach out to SHAC for more information.
Nature in Virtual Reality
Virtual reality takes images and videos of nature to another level. It allows you to immerse yourself in the experience, which can psychologically cause you to feel you are actually present in the natural environment you choose. VR has the option to watch 360 videos on YouTube or to travel locations around the world through the Wander app. You may find yourself taking deeper breaths and relaxing more as you do this.
The Greenhouse on Campus
Did you know there is a greenhouse on campus behind Cheel? Consider joining the Gardening Club and helping tend to these plants. The greenhouse is heated and even in the midst of the snow-covered winter, it’s always thriving with beautiful plants. Just like having indoor plants, a couple minutes in the greenhouse has many benefits.