Winter is here! And while that means playful snowball fights and wild toboggan rides for some, others will find themselves feeling sad and unmotivated.
Seasonal Affective Disorder affects millions of Americans each year. SAD is a mood disorder characterized by negative feelings like fatigue, depression, hopelessness, and withdrawal. It happens most frequently in regions where there’s cold weather and little sunshine for long parts of the year.
Unfortunately, there’s probably not much you can do to change the weather. But there are other ways to improve mood and boost cognition. Simple changes to your indoor environment can help combat negative feelings. For example, bright lights can be used to simulate sunlight. You can also create the impression of seasonality using nature-inspired designs associated with spring or summer.
Liven up Your Winter with Nature-Inspired Designs
Artificial plants bring the joy of spring to indoor environments. Lush, green foliage has been proven to positively influence mood and cognition, even if those plants are artificial! Verywell Mind has found that adding artificial greenery to your environment can improve mood, minimize stress, and enhance feelings of productivity.
Experts suggest that having evergreen plants nearby is one of the easiest ways to relieve tension after a stressful day.
Best Artificial Plants for Treating SAD
Discover the calming benefits of evergreen Jade!
This design’s refined palette of gorgeous greens adds character to any space. Its delicately placed petals create a profound sense of realism, while its rich textures capture the genuine appearance of real jade.
Transport yourself to a tropical paradise!
Paradise is a wonderful bouquet of rare and exotic plants. Multicolored petals create a feeling of natural abundance, while vibrant greens and mellow yellows lift the mind and soothe the soul.
Physically, you may be still be trapped in Chicago, but mentally you’ll feel like relaxing on a beach in Tahiti.