Back-to-School Boost: How Plant Power Supports Student Mental Health
As students return to classrooms and study routines pick up, stress levels commonly rise. Fortunately, introducing houseplants into study spaces is a simple, evidence-based strategy to improve mental well-being—supported by growing scientific research and resonating with what people are searching for online right now.
1. Plants Reduce Stress and Promote Calm
Numerous studies show that interacting with plants lowers stress markers. One trial found that individuals who repotted plants experienced lower blood pressure and less anxiety compared to those engaged in computer tasks.
Additionally, simply having plants around—including real greenery or even images of plants—can significantly reduce stress and improve focus.
2. Indoor Greenery Enhances Focus and Productivity
Research indicates plants boost attention and cognitive performance. A systematic study revealed that indoor plants help with tasks such as reading and information processing, and even improved academic grades. Another found students’ attention spans were noticeably sharper in classrooms with live plants.
3. Gardening and Nature Activities Improve Well-Being
Beyond indoor plants, gardening—whether at home or in community settings—offers measurable mental health benefits. Interventional studies show participation in gardening and horticulture therapy significantly enhances well-being and quality of life.
Horticultural therapy also strengthens confidence, physical health, and social connection—especially meaningful for students and families starting a new school year.
4. Nature's Impact Goes Beyond Just Plants
“Forest bathing,” or shinrin-yoku, also supports mental health. Time spent in green spaces, even briefly, has been scientifically proven to lower stress, improve mood, and enhance cognitive clarity. Urban greenery in schools or neighbourhoods is similarly linked to better mental health outcomes.
5. Easy, Effective Ways to Use Plant Power This School Year
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Add low-maintenance houseplants like snake plants, spider plants, lavender, aloe, or mint to classrooms, dorm rooms or study areas.
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Practice mindful plant care: watering or pruning becomes a calming, sensory-focused habit that combats overthinking.
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Join or start a community or school garden for shared learning, improved nutrition awareness, and deeper emotional support.
The Urbane Eight Community Connection
At Urbane Eight, we believe plants aren’t just décor—they’re part of building a healthier lifestyle and a stronger community. We aim to be that “third place” in Lethbridge: a welcoming space beyond home and school where you can sit, sip a coffee, and enjoy being surrounded by greenery.
We also host yoga in the greenhouse and organize a variety of community events throughout the year, creating opportunities for people to connect, recharge, and enjoy the wellness benefits of plants together.
If you’re local, we encourage you to come in, unwind, and experience the calm of our plant-filled environment. And if you’re not nearby, we’ve got you covered—we ship plants, pots, and everything you need right to your door, making it easy to set up your dorm room, classroom, or home study space to gain the mental health benefits plants bring.
