Power up
Imagine transforming your everyday environment into a haven of sensory rejuvenation in just 40 seconds.1 It may sound like magic, but the secret lies in something as simple and accessible as a houseplant. Today, we'll learn how a humble houseplant can help power up your sensory fitness and add to your overall well-being.
Sensory awareness refers to the conscious perception and appreciation of the sensory stimuli in our environment. It involves noticing the subtle details—the texture of a leaf, the humidity in the air, the faint scent of soil—that typically go unnoticed in our busy lives. Integrating natural elements into our daily environments, such as houseplants, can significantly enhance our sensory awareness. This practice not only enriches our sensory experiences but also helps reduce stress,2 improve mood, and increase cognitive function.3
Footnotes
The Problem
Many people feel too busy or distracted by tech to fully engage their senses. This simple routine proves that it only takes a short moment to reconnect with our sensory environment.
The Solution
Make 40 seconds breaks for of sensory engagement with your houseplant a daily habit. Position your plant where you often pause or gaze, making it easy to include these sensory moments into your routine. Selecting a houseplant is the first step in this sensory journey. Whether it’s the lush, broad leaves of a peace lily or the intricate patterns of a snake plant, each variety offers a unique sensory profile to explore. Houseplants improve air quality, but their benefits extend beyond the physical. Touching and observing greenery can ground us, bring our focus to the present, and heighten our sensory awareness.
The 40-Second Sensory Routine:
Step 1
Sight: You can spend the entire time just gazing at the plant if you like, or we can take the first 10 seconds to simply look at your plant. Notice the shades of green, the shape, and patterns on its leaves, and how the light graces the plant.
Step 2
Touch: For the next 10 seconds, gently touch the plant. Feel the texture of its leaves and the moisture of the soil. (Skip if not safe, for example if you're focusing on a cactus.)
Step 3
Smell: Spend another 10 seconds getting up close enough to inhale the subtle scents of the plant. Each plant has a unique aroma, whether it’s the earthy, fragrant soil or the fresh scent of the foliage.
Step 4
Sound: In the final 10 seconds, stay silent and listen. You might hear the faint rustle of leaves or the soft sounds of the environment around the plant.
Reflection:
After completing the routine, take a moment to reflect on your experience. How do these sensory inputs nourish and refresh your mind, body, and soul? This practice not only enhances sensory awareness but also promotes a meditative, mindful state, reducing stress, and increasing mental clarity. All efforts are cumulative and spending upward of 120 minutes per week with nature can benefit health and well-being.1
Footnotes
Expected Outcomes:
Hawaii Kai sunset. Copyright Susan McIntire 2024. All rights reserved.
