For the Love of Plants

Studies show that plants improve mental health

When one looks at the greenery and green spaces, one automatically relaxes. The greenery and flowers provide respite from the daily stresses of the day, and one feels the weight of the world lifting away. Gardening is a hobby that many enjoy; however, people term it as ‘expensive’ and ‘time-consuming’. Like any other hobby, yes, to a certain extent it holds true. It might be time-consuming for some, but for others, it might be a way of life.

Take the curious case of Karachi, for instance. Primarily a desert, the land does not offer much in terms of fertile soil, and wherever there are spaces, the sand covers the areas, giving it a dull, rather lifeless look. Add to that the constant onslaught of pollution emitted by the cars and heavy traffic found on congested roads. That adds to the overall dullness of the landscape. Karachi, being the financial hub, witnesses an immense volume of traffic and commuters daily. Being termed as a ‘concrete jungle’, the majority of the city has massive structures, old and new. However, it offers very little when it comes to greenery and green spaces. Technically, where there is a dearth of scenic beauty, people often get more triggered easily, which can be seen during rush hours as commuters are seen shouting insults at each other.

The effect of greenery on mental health is not talked about much, but researchers have found a direct correlation between the two. Visitors coming to Karachi have interesting insights into Karachi residents. “Yes, the city is good, lovely shopping areas and eating outlets, but why does everyone look so angry all the time?” said Saira, who is visiting her family and resides in Islamabad. Her question is innocent, as being an impartial observer, her brain subconsciously drew the conclusion of ‘anger’ when she observed the body language of the residents. Not to take away from the residents of Karachi, the daily commute over long distances and just looking out at the dreary scenery can impact one’s mood in an adverse way. One is unconscious of this; therefore, the body language to an onlooker can appear a bit ‘aggressive’.

The beauty of connecting with nature is that it does not have to be an elaborate array of trees and flowers—even one flower pot will suffice. Plants are living organisms, and when the focus shifts to tending the seed to a plant, the mind relaxes. It is no wonder that people who garden or tend to their plants are more ‘at ease’. The interesting thing about gardening is also that there is no age barrier. One can start as young as a pre-teen to someone more ‘mature’.

Naushaba Khalil, President of Pakistan Horticulture Society, muses, “The Horticulture Society of Pakistan has existed for 75 years, and there is no age restriction on taking up gardening. You also do not need a huge space, just keep the space clean and well-tended. I also tell people to plant our indigenous plants, which are so fragrant—for example, Night Blooming Jasmine or Raat ki Rani as it is called, Jasmine, or Motia, or our own Roses, which are so velvety in texture and so fragrant. All you need is love for plants, and you will see an amazing transformation in yourself.”

People know about the benefits of plants in general, but few realize their importance in everyday hustle and bustle. Imran is an avid gardener, and he shares his story about grief and the therapeutic effects of gardening. “I lost my beloved wife to cancer three years ago. I was so depressed because the disease claimed her within one year. I wouldn’t talk to anyone, sort of went into my shell. Then there was a plant outside, with the most fragrant smell. I started noticing it, and one day I tended to it. It was as if the plant absorbed my sadness. I really bonded with my plant, and slowly the depression took a back seat. Then I got more (Motia), and these plants helped me heal when no one else could. I tell people, please have a pot of one plant if you do not have space, but try to focus, and you will see an improvement in your mood and the way you interact with others.” Imran’s story is moving, and it reflects the deeper therapeutic effects of plants and nature.

Green spaces absorb carbon dioxide during the daytime and release oxygen—nature’s way of keeping everything in balance. Trees provide shade in the sweltering heat of the sun, especially true for residents of Karachi, and absorb most of the city’s air pollution. Therefore, it stands to reason that indulging in a hobby like gardening is a win-win. Climate change is a reality, and planting trees or spending time in nature might just save not just one’s life—it might save one’s mental health from deteriorating.

Scientists have found a correlation between overall health and plants or green spaces. The polyphenols found in green plants are excellent for human health, and those who switch to a more balanced diet consisting of fruits and vegetables have a lower risk of developing a variety of physical illnesses, including regulation of serotonin, which is secreted in the blood when one is relaxed. The balance of serotonin is crucial for maintaining several functions, including mental health. Studies have found that people diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder have low levels of serotonin. While visiting a doctor and getting an expert opinion and medication is crucial, prevention is key in maintaining good health—both physical and mental—and spending time in nature does exactly that.

“When people use the tools and start planting flowers or just take up gardening, their mental state actually becomes more relaxed. After winter, the promise of life gives one hope, and people do not feel so lonely,” said Kiran. It is important to note that no one’s life is a ‘bed of roses’, but people manage. However, some cannot, as they are overwhelmed with the daily stresses of life—it is best to turn to nature.

DHA Karachi has always advocated for planting trees and flowers, which adds to the beauty of the landscape. But the question arises: how is the water being managed for trees when there is a lack of drinking water for residents of Karachi? Well, when there is a will, there is a way. The answer lies in the Sewerage Treatment Plants (STPs), which provide the treated greywater used to keep DHA clean and pristine. The way water is recycled to facilitate green spaces is a great solution.

Dr. Farhat Agha, Principal of DHA College for Women, encourages her students to research plants and plant flowers and trees. “Well, we need to inculcate this knowledge about trees and plants when people are young so that they learn the importance of plants.” This mindset goes a long way in introducing youngsters to this fascinating hobby, and as a result, they learn the importance of planting seasonal flowers, flower arrangements, recycling of dead barks in handicraft, and educating others about the importance of plants.

This is the reason why nature unfolded so beautifully with vibrant hues in the Port City, especially at Nisar Shaheed Park, DHA Karachi, and its surroundings, unveiling the beauty of nature with a promise of life. After all, all one can do is bring a small change into one’s life…plant a tree.