This year I have started a little plant family. I currently have ten all over my apartment in varying sizes, shapes, and colors. Since I started buying them and had to learn how to take care of all these different plants, I learned some important care tips that apply to both my plants and to me.
Water Thoroughly
One of the basic parts of caring for a plant is making sure they are watered enough, but not too much. This is the same for people! Often when we are feeling sick, have a headache, or are irritable, it’s our body’s way of telling us we need more water. Carrying a reusable water bottle around with you to classes is a great way to stay hydrated and make sure you are giving your body what it needs to grow.
Another thing this taught me is that too much of a good thing can be damaging. You don’t want to water a plant too much or too often because this can lead to root rot and actually end up killing the plant. This is the same for a lot of things in life, too. This rule can be applied to a lot of different aspects of your life, whether it’s making sure you don’t eat too much ice cream too regularly, or simply knowing when it’s time to say no to plans and take a self-care day. Remember that sometimes too much of a good thing that seems healthy for you can lead to more damage to your well-being.
Know Who You’re With
Certain plants need a more humid environment, so it’s good to put them close to other plants; however, some plants can grow just fine on their own. This is exactly the same for people, too. Some people are extroverts and love to have tons of “plants” around them; they feed off the energy of others, and it makes them feel good. Other people prefer to be alone and just enjoy themselves mostly. It’s important to know what you prefer, and it’s important to learn what other people need, too. If you love being with other people, don’t assume other people are the same as you because you could make them uncomfortable. Learn body language and boundaries so you can make sure everyone is comfortable in the environment they’re in.
Sunlight is Key
This may seem like another obvious one, but plants need sunlight. People need sunlight, too, in order to maintain their mental health. Many people go through a seasonal depression as days get shorter and sunlight is harder to come by, so try and take advantage of the sun while it’s shining. Take a walk between classes instead of taking the shuttle or train just to get outside and get your body moving.
You Can Always Move
There have been times when I put plants in a certain place because I thought it looked good, but I later moved them because I realized it was not a good place for them. I move plants for many reasons, but the main one is the place I originally put them was actually harmful to them. This shows that no matter where you put yourself in life, you have the power to move. Even if you put yourself in a position where you thought you would be thriving, but it is draining instead, you have the power to move. Drop the class, change majors, stop hanging out with that person, whatever it is, remember you have the power to move.
I am still learning daily about how to care for my plants and myself, but I think we all can take more life tips from plants. They’re not just pretty to look at — they also have a lot of wisdom.