Fight Off the Winter Blues with House Plants — Bob Boldt HVAC | Kitchener ON

As summer fades into fall and winter, you spend more time indoors. It just works out that way. And then, before you know, a case of the winter blues can easily set in. Not with everyone, of course, but it’s a very common occurrence.Getting the blues is one thing. Chasing them away is quite another. So, instead of hiding under a blanket or distracting yourself with an over-abundance of TV, we have what we think is a better idea – head to your local florist or garden center and stock up on an assortment of house plants. Some are particularly effective, as you’re about to see.Increased Sense of Well-BeingResearch shows that caring for plants provides a connectedness to nature that otherwise might be missing during the winter months. This care and responsibility can provide one with a sense of purpose, reduce stress, and lower anxiety. Plants can cause the brain to produce more serotonin which stabilizes mood and increases feelings of happiness. In fact, studies have shown that individuals who surround themselves with house plants tend to be more satisfied with life than those who don’t.Better SleepQuality, restful sleep is essential for good physical and mental health. Plants in a bedroom can help you feel more relaxed and fall asleep faster. Some plants, like Sanseveria, continue to release oxygen during the night.Cleaner AirHouse plants have been proven to be efficient air purifiers by converting carbon dioxide into oxygen. They filter out toxic chemicals like formaldehyde and benzene and help reduce airborne bacteria and mold spores by about 50 percent. This is especially important during the winter months when we tend to keep windows and doors closed.Plant VarietiesHere are some plant varieties to consider. Just be aware that some may be harmful to pets, so check with your veterinarian before bringing any plant into your home.Anthuriums are beautiful and easy to care for – ideal for those who don’t exactly have a green thumb. They do need a good amount of light, but are in continuous bloom, adding color to even the gloomiest of days.Ferns add much-needed humidity into the air, making each room they occupy more comfortable. Try the Kimberly Queen, which requires less water than other fern varieties, so if you forget to water it for a day or two, it won’t wither away and die.Chinese Evergreens are quite hardy and do well with reduced light, like that during the winter.The Snake Plant can thrive in high or low light and is drought-resistant. It comes in several varieties with unique shapes and vibrant colors to choose from.If improved air quality is of particular importance to you, then don’t just go visit a florist – contact the indoor air quality specialists at Bob Boldt HVAC. We offer several solutions to help remove a host of pollutants from your air – not just during the winter but all year long.