Just Relaxed Blog

Tag: stress relief

Confessions of a Reformed Plant Killer (and Why You Might Actually Enjoy This Whole Green Thumb Thing)

From Black Thumb to Proud Plant Parent

Okay, let’s be real. I used to be the person who couldn’t keep a cactus alive in a desert. Seriously, I’m pretty sure I’ve single-handedly funded the succulent section at my local garden center. But something strange happened during the chaos of, well, *gestures broadly at everything*. I adopted a little ZZ plant named Zephyr. And guess what? He thrived.

That tiny triumph opened up a whole new world (not literally, although Zephyr is getting pretty big). Turns out, being a plant parent comes with a surprising amount of joy—and I’m not just talking about the bragging rights that come with keeping something alive for longer than a week. So, whether you’re a fellow plant killer looking for redemption or a seasoned green thumb seeking solidarity, come along on this journey with me.

Plants: The Unexpected Stress Reliever
Remember those adult coloring books everyone was obsessed with? Yeah, plants are basically that, but in 3D and with the added bonus of purifying your air. There’s something incredibly therapeutic about tending to your plants. Watering them, dusting their leaves (yes, it’s a thing), even just taking a moment to appreciate their growth—it’s all incredibly grounding.

Plus, unlike your email inbox or that pile of laundry judging you from the corner, plants are incredibly low-maintenance companions. They won’t judge your messy bun or your questionable dance moves (trust me, I’ve tested this). They’re just happy to soak up some sunshine and remind you to slow down for a minute.

Transform Your Home: From Sad Beige to Indoor Jungle

Let’s be real, plants are basically living, breathing home decor—and the best kind, because they constantly evolve and surprise you. A strategically placed monstera can instantly transform a boring corner into a stylish oasis. A trailing pothos can add a touch of whimsy to your bookshelf. And don’t even get me started on the vibrant pops of color you can achieve with flowering plants.

The best part? You don’t need to break the bank to create your own indoor jungle. Start small with a few easy-care plants and gradually expand your collection as your confidence (and your green thumb) grows.

March 9, 2025
The Unexpected Joys of Being a Plant Parent (and No, I Don’t Mean Children)
Confessions of a Former Plant Killer

Let’s be honest, my thumbs have never been blessed with the magical ability to nurture life. In fact, I’m pretty sure I’ve single-handedly funded the succulent section at my local grocery store with my repeated (and failed) attempts. But something strange happened this past year. Call it pandemic boredom, a desire for something green in my life that wasn’t my laundry pile, or maybe just a touch of insanity – I became a plant parent.
plant here, a peace lily there. But soon, my apartment started to resemble something between a greenhouse and a jungle gym for my cat (who, thankfully, seems to have developed a healthy fear of anything leafy). But here’s the thing: I’m not complaining.

Turns out, being a plant parent comes with a whole host of unexpected joys:
1. Stress Relief: Forget meditation apps. There’s something incredibly therapeutic about digging in the dirt, pruning leaves, and just generally fussing over my green babies. Plus, watching something you’ve nurtured actually grow is strangely satisfying.
2. Home Decor Superpowers: Move over, throw pillows. Plants are the ultimate home decor hack. They add color, texture, and life to even the drabbest of corners. Who needs expensive art when you have a majestic monstera?
Learning to Speak Plant: A Crash Course in Plant Care

Now, I’m not going to lie. There have been casualties along the way. (RIP, Philodendron Phil. You will be missed.) But with each wilted leaf and droopy stem, I’ve learned a valuable lesson about the delicate balance of water, light, and just the right amount of babying that plants need to thrive.

These days, I can proudly say I can distinguish between overwatering and under-watering (most of the time), and I even know the difference between perlite and vermicast (don’t ask me to spell it, though). Who knew dirt could be so complex?

March 9, 2025
The Unexpected Joys of Being a Plant Parent (and Why You Should Join the Club)

The Unexpected Joys of Being a Plant Parent (and Why You Should Join the Club)

Confessions of a Former Plant Killer

Okay, I’ll admit it. I used to be a notorious plant killer. You know the type – the ones who could kill a cactus in a desert. I’d bring home these vibrant, leafy friends, full of hope and good intentions, only to watch them wither and droop within weeks. It was a cycle of guilt and shame, I tell you! But then, something changed. I stumbled upon the unexpected joys of being a plant parent, and let me tell you, there’s no turning back.

1. Greenery That Doesn’t Judge (Or Talk Back!)

Let’s face it, life can be stressful. Work deadlines, relationship woes, the never-ending laundry pile – sometimes you just need a break from it all. Enter: your plant babies. These silent, non-judgmental companions provide a sense of peace and tranquility that’s hard to find elsewhere. They don’t care if you’re having a bad hair day or haven’t showered in 24 hours (though maybe open a window if it’s the latter). They just sit there, looking all green and glorious, reminding you to breathe and appreciate the simple things in life.

Plus, they make excellent listeners. Need to vent about your annoying coworker or that awkward date? Your plant will never interrupt or offer unsolicited advice. They’re the ultimate confidants, absorbing your woes (and maybe some carbon dioxide) without judgment.

March 9, 2025