Feeling Green: Week 2 Update

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Feeling Green: How Plants Can Improve Mental/Physical Health

*Week 2 Update*

Meghan Kasper
Hello Again!

           For this week's update, I am going to be listing the findings from my research and showing you my work in progress.

Research:

  • Studies have proven that house plants…

    • improve concentration and productivity (by up to 15%)

    • reduce stress levels

    • and boost your mood

  • They release oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide (naturally trap toxins)

    • Created fresher air and helps to eliminates harmful toxins

    • Cleaner air reduces risk of stroke, heart disease, and lung cancer

    • Some plants clean the air 24/7 - such as succulents  

  • “Extensive research by NASA has revealed that houseplants can remove up to 87 percent of air toxins in 24 hours! 

  • Plants (especially ones with broader leaves) help regulate humidity and increase levels of positivity 

    • Seeing greenery and nature helps us feel more relaxed and calm (benefits every day mood)

  • Benefits to health (noted with people who have plants surrounding them)

    • Lower blood pressure

    • Increased attentiveness in office spaces 

    • Workplace plants boost focus

    • Make people more productive in office spaces

    • Lead to greater job satisfaction and improved sense of well-being

    • Have also helped reduce symptoms in those who are already suffering from illness

  • Some plants such as lavender and small citrus trees have aromatherapy powers

    • Ex = Lavender → contains terpene linalool (instantly brings a sense of calm)


These are the links to two of the best websites that I found regarding this information:




Work In Progress:
      It took me a very long time to come up with a solid idea of what I wanted to do for my piece, but after many concept sketches, I finally made one that I really love (image below)...
                        
      After all of that thought and planning, I was finally able to start my piece. Because my research and planning took so much time, I really didn't get very far as you can see in this picture below... 
    

  
      In the next coming week, I am hoping to get at least a base layer down so that I can have the layout of the piece finalized. Then with the extra time I have, I would like to start adding in the finer details. I really want this piece to portray the feeling of being immersed in greenery that is healing the mind and body so much so that the physical body and greenery are becoming one. 

      I am really excited about this project and what information and ideas I have so far and I can't wait to continue sharing more of this process with you! 

That's all for now! See you next time :)