When we can’t spend time outdoors due to extreme weather conditions, mobility challenges or illness, we can create a nature sanctuary indoors.
The first step in creating an indoor nature sanctuary is finding a space free of distractions, preferably near a window. Place houseplants in your space. Houseplants offer depolluting properties that purity the air in your home. Different plants remove different type of pollutants. If you have children or pets in your home, take care to use only nontoxic plants.
Plants emit phytoncides, natural antimicrobial volatile organic compounds, that defend the plant against fungi, insects, and bacteria. Humans benefit from inhaling phytoncides as well, as they boost immunity, reduce stress and improve air quality. Some plants that emit higher amounts of phytoncides include Aloe Vera, Bamboo Palm, Snake Plants, Peace Lillies, English Ivy, Spider Plant, Pothos, Philodendron, Transvaal daily, Chrysanthemum, Rubber Plant, Money Plant, and many more. Herbs also emit phytoncides, including rosemary, sage, thyme, coriander, mint, eucalyptus, lavender, garlic.
Use essential oils to enhance the effects of phytoncides. Essential oils are extracted from the plant parts that produce phytoncides and contain the same chemical components. The best way to use essential oils in an indoor nature sanctuary is by diffusion. Always follow the recommended dosage, typically a few drops, when adding essential oils to a diffuser, as too much essential oil can cause irritation. Do not place essential oil on your skin undiluted or ingest it. Buy high quality essential oil and follow the directions on the label. Check with your physician if you have any respiratory illnesses before using essential oil.
Additionally, place other natural objects in your space, such as rocks & pebbles, crystals, moss, leaves, sticks, bark, acorns, chestnuts, feathers, dried grasses & herbs. Add the element of water with an indoor fountain or a bowl of water. Place pictures of outdoor scenes in your space. A well-placed mirror can offer the illusion of expansiveness.
Place a textured surface near your sit spot to place your bare feet on. You can create your own by placing natural material on a boot tray. Some ideas are moss, cut grass or herbs, flower petals, leaves, etc. The Addition of a miniature desktop Zen garden invites mindfulness.
Lastly, you may want to play outdoor sounds to create a complete outdoor sensory experience.
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