There’s a new trend sprouting this Mental Health Awareness Month – Green Therapy, which involves nature’s ability to heal. Caring for plants, indoors or outdoors, can reduce anxiety, boost mindfulness and foster resilience.
As we move into summer, the season offers a gentle boost of renewal – not just for nature, but also for own mental wellbeing. October, being Mental Health Awareness Month, invites us to embrace the growing trend of “green therapy,” which highlights the therapeutic benefits of connecting with nature. Whether through the tranquillity of a garden, the presence of plants in our homes or the mindful practice of caring for living things, this approach serves as a powerful reminder of the care we need to show ourselves.
The World Health Organization estimates that five percent of adults globally suffer from depression. It can affect all aspects of life, including a sufferer’s relationships with family, friends and community. Stress, depression and anxiety also contribute to increased absenteeism in the workplace.
a time for personal growth and mental clarity
Green therapy provides a direct link between our environment and our mental health, offering both peace and purpose.
“Spring is an ideal time to reflect on our mental health,” says Kgomotso Sebeela, mental health professional and specialist wellness counsellor at Kena Health. “Whether working in a garden or tending to plants indoors, plants play a crucial role in creating environments that nurture mental resilience and encourage mindfulness and an appreciation for slow, steady growth – qualities essential for mental wellbeing.”
Green therapy includes indoor and outdoor gardening. Outdoor gardening offers an opportunity to engage with the earth, physically grounding us while reducing anxiety. “Digging into soil, planting seeds and watching them grow can be incredibly therapeutic,” says Sebeela. She adds that spending time outdoors also increases exposure to sunlight, boosting mood and improving overall mental health. On the other hand, caring for plants indoors brings nature into our personal spaces, encouraging mindfulness with every watering or trimming.
Read our six strategies to build mental resilience post here.
the case for green therapy: nature’s therapeutic benefits
In 2023, the University of Reading conducted a study with the Royal Horticultural Society to investigate the psychological responses to house plants. The study concluded that plants with lush green leaves, high leaf areas and dense canopies are likely to give the biggest boost to your wellbeing. In addition, research from Japan also found that the presence of leafy plants can enhance creativity in workplace tasks.
The act of nurturing a plant, big or small, can create a sense of routine and purpose, offering a meaningful connection to nature. “Caring for plants gives us a much-needed break from the pressures of modern life,” explains Kgomotso. “Tending to them helps us slow down and centre our thoughts.”
The outdoors also helps engage all our senses. The sound of birds, the smell of flowers, the feeling of soil – each sensory experience promotes mindfulness. Working with plants indoors offers a similar sense of tranquillity, providing a rewarding routine that fosters a sense of achievement and purpose.
green therapy is good for children, too
Gardening encourages us to focus on the moment, and immerse ourselves in the simple act of nurturing life while reaping the benefits of the great outdoors.
And it is an activity we can enjoy with our children while teaching them about nature, the seasons, types of soil and preparation, planting and pruning and how plants grow. It fosters responsibility and encourages them to appreciate progress. Children enjoy helping with gardening tasks, so let them rake leaves or deadhead flowers.
We encourage you to take some time and indulge in some green therapy. Let the power of nature restore your energy and balance and nurture your mental health.
