Plants have shown to improve the emotional well being of those around them, as stated by the mental health magazine, Psychology Today. Symptoms of depression, stress, anxiety and low mood can be uplifted by spending time around greenery. Especially during quarantine, those who spent time around plants found hope through the pandemic and saw their mental-health improving due to their green environment. “They’re very calming to take care of and just nurture them over time, so by providing care for them I’m also providing care for myself,” Kelly noted. “I just [enjoy] having a little piece of nature in my room, I think it’s really fun to have. Passion for plants moved from Ward’s home to his classroom. With the introduction of greenery in his learning environment, Ward was able to feel more comfortable and concentrated through a time filled with distractions. “Last year, it was a little harder to focus, it was a little harder to feel comfortable in my classroom [without plants], and I think part of being productive is you know, feeling comfortable in your environment so that you can focus on whatever tasks you have in front of you,” Ward said.
Aloe vera is an easy to maintain houseplant that holds many benefits, such as treating minor wounds, purifying the surrounding air, and acting as a reminder of growth.
Ward’s decision to introduce plants into his classroom was influenced by his students; an environment where he could be comfortable should be one where students feel welcomed as well. “Part of my teaching philosophy [is] that it’s important for students to not dread coming into this place, and to feel like it’s, you know, like their classroom as well,” Ward said. “When I’m in a classroom that’s just sparse and bare, it makes the time go by so much more slowly. If I feel comfortable in that space, then I feel like I can be more productive.” Ward invites his students into the care process for the plants, and in return creates connections with them that reach beyond the standard student-teacher relationship. “I’ll have students go and fill up the watering can, and even students asked me if they could water some of the plants. So when they become part of it, that’s awesome. I’ve had students asking me where I get my plants
Through its soft aroma, lavender provides a calming atmosphere that soothes anxiety. Lavender promotes productivity and a grounded mindset.
and I’ll give advice. Any connections you can make with students is [...] really important,” Ward stated. “Students can sometimes have a hard time seeing their teachers as real people. Anything that might humanize me or, you know, personalize students’ perception of me is worthwhile.” Plant lovers express their advice for those who are new to plant life and are interested in creating a greener lifestyle. From researching what plants you purchase to finding costly and ethical nurseries, there are many resources to beginning a greener lifestyle. “I would just say go for it, because it’s just like a really fun hobby to get involved in,” Kelly added. “It doesn’t matter if you kill plants all the time, because eventually you’ll find one species that works for you.”
Known to create a protective environment, snake plants help reduce feelings of loneliness and encourages those around it to stay positive during difficult moments.
Snake Plant
Lavender
Aloe Vera
Graphics by Zoraya King
RAVEN REPORT | JANUARY 2022
11
