The Surprising Benefits of Indoor Plants for a Good Night's Sleep

If you're having trouble sleeping, you're not alone. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, around 35% of Americans have difficulty falling or staying asleep. While there are many different factors that can contribute to sleep problems, one solution that you may not have considered is bringing plants into your bedroom.

Indoor plants have been shown to have a number of health benefits, including improving air quality and reducing stress and anxiety. But did you know that they can also help you sleep better? Here's how.

First of all, plants release oxygen into the air, which can help you breathe easier and sleep more soundly. They also absorb carbon dioxide, which can help reduce the amount of the gas in the air, leading to improved air quality overall. This is especially important in the bedroom, as the air we breathe while we sleep has a direct impact on the quality of our sleep.

In addition to improving air quality, plants can also help reduce stress and anxiety, which can be major factors in sleep problems. The act of caring for plants has been shown to have a calming effect on people, and the presence of plants in a room can create a sense of tranquility. This can be especially beneficial if you have a tendency to worry or ruminate at night, as it can help you relax and let go of those thoughts.

But the benefits of plants for sleep don't stop there. Many plants also release a small amount of scent, which can help create a more relaxing atmosphere in your bedroom. Lavender, for example, is known for its calming properties and is often used in products like essential oils and pillow sprays to help people sleep. Other plants with scents that can promote sleep include jasmine and gardenia.

It's important to note that while plants can be a great addition to your bedroom, it's still important to create a sleep-friendly environment overall. This includes keeping your bedroom dark, cool, and quiet, as well as using a comfortable mattress and pillows. You should also avoid screens (such as TVs, phones, and laptops) before bedtime, as the blue light they emit can disrupt your body's natural sleep cycle.

So, which plants are the best for improving sleep? Here are a few recommendations:

Lavender

As mentioned earlier, lavender is known for its calming properties and can help you relax and fall asleep more easily. It's also relatively easy to care for, as it only needs to be watered once a week and prefers well-draining soil.

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is another plant that's great for improving air quality and releasing oxygen at night. It's also known for its healing properties and can help soothe sunburns and other skin irritation.

Snake Plant

Snake plants are known for their ability to thrive in a variety of conditions and are great for improving air quality. They're also low maintenance and can go a week or more without watering.

Jasmine

Jasmine is a fragrant plant that's known for its ability to promote sleep and relaxation. It does require a bit more care than some of the other plants on this list, as it needs to be watered regularly and prefers well-draining soil.

Incorporating plants into your bedroom can be a simple and effective way to improve your sleep quality. By releasing oxygen, reducing stress and anxiety, and creating a relaxing atmosphere, plants can make a big difference in how well you sleep.

It's important to choose plants that are easy to care for and suitable for your bedroom conditions. Lavender, aloe vera, snake plants, and jasmine are all good options to consider. Just be sure to do your research and follow the care instructions for each plant to ensure they thrive in your space.

While plants can be a great addition to your sleep routine, it's still important to maintain good sleep hygiene and create a sleep-friendly environment overall. This includes keeping your bedroom dark, cool, and quiet, as well as using a comfortable mattress and pillows. Avoiding screens before bedtime and establishing a relaxing bedtime routine can also help you fall asleep more easily.

The nature sounds in Sleepiest could also be the perfect accompaniment to your new plant-filled bedroom setup?

So, if you're having trouble sleeping, consider bringing some plants into your bedroom. Not only will they improve the air quality and create a more relaxing atmosphere, but they can also bring a touch of nature and beauty to your space.