“We had zero greenery. It was bare. We started by clearing up, then bringing in red soil and manure. Levelling and planting grass, trees, flowers and potted plants,” says Ms Njoki.
It didn’t take long for Njoki to realise that plants offer much more than just colour and beauty. They play a remarkable role in stabilising mental health, providing a calming effect that helps reduce stress and anxiety.
“By creating a calm space, these plants promote mindfulness and ground you in the present moment. Plants, in their gentle way, contribute to a peaceful mind, offering silent support through the ups and downs of life,” says Ms Njoki.
So how do these plants contribute to mental health?
Among Njoki’s first choices were the monstera and the snake plant.
The monstera, with its striking split leaves, became a personal favourite. As she nurtured it and watched its bold, new growth, she felt a sense of expansion in her own life - its resilience reminding her to keep moving forward, no matter how anxious or uncertain she felt.
Its dramatic leaves create a serene atmosphere, ideal for relaxation. It purifies the air, releasing oxygen and promoting a calming environment.
The snake plant, known for its air-purifying qualities, felt like a steadfast companion. Its ability to purify the air and help her breathe easier mirrored the calming effect it had on her mind, allowing her to literally and figuratively exhale.
Soon after, Njoki added a syngonium, with its arrow-shaped leaves that seemed to unfold with each passing day. This plant became a symbol of growth, reminding her that change is natural and that even after hard times, there is always room for new beginnings. ess Watching the syngonium stretch towards the light is like watching her own resilience grow.
Njoki Kamau at her home in Membley estate Kiambu County on November 6, 2024.
Photo credit: Billy Ogada | Nation Media Group
Then came the spider plant. Its cascading leaves and delicate 'babies' brought an unexpected joy into her life. Running her hands over its soft fronds became a ritual, and she felt a deep sense of gratitude for the effortless beauty it brought to her space. Spider plants purify the air by removing toxins such as carbon monoxide and formaldehyde, creating a fresh environment that reduces stress and increases mental clarity.
“The spider plant reminds me that even growth can be gentle—steady and without force,” says Njoki.
Sansevieria is particularly known for its resilience. Able to filter out toxins such as formaldehyde, xylene and benzene, it thrives with minimal care - requiring little water and indirect light. Its ability to release oxygen at night makes it ideal for a restful night's sleep, helping clear the air and the mind.
Syngonium, with its intricate arrow-shaped leaves, is not only a beautiful addition to any room but also purifies the air, helping to improve concentration and overall mental clarity.
Orchids are more than just beautiful flowers—they are living art. Their vibrant colours and delicate petals inspire wonder and an appreciation of beauty. Caring for them encourages a calming routine and reminds Njoki to slow down and be patient.
Philodendrons, with their cascading foliage, provide a sense of calm, purifying the air and helping to reduce anxiety and stress.
According to Njoki, plants such as sansevieria (snake plant), syngonium, monstera, spider plants, orchids, and philodendrons thrive in outdoor spaces and contribute greatly to mental well-being.
She encourages every household to adopt at least one plant per family member, believing these plants can help maintain a balanced and peaceful mind.
Tended with love and care, Njoki's garden has become more than a collection of plants—it has become her sanctuary.
"These plants support my mental health, help me breathe easier, calm my anxiety, and find moments of peace amidst the chaos of life. Each plant has become a companion on my journey, teaching me patience, resilience, and the power of growth," says the 37-year-old.
Variety of potted herbs at Njoki Kamau's home in Membley estate in Kiambu County on November 6, 2024.
Photo credit: Billy Ogada | Nation Media Group
As Njoki puts it, "Plants introduce an element of nature that our minds crave. Spending time in green spaces, even just looking at greenery, taps into something deep within us—a reminder of natural rhythms and cycles. Plants help to refresh the mind, reduce anxiety, and bring balance back into our lives.
She also stresses that greenery has a positive effect on cognitive performance. In a study she conducted, primary school children who studied in rooms with plants completed tasks faster, showed improved attention and had better concentration than those in rooms without plants. She believes that plants don't just nourish the body—they nourish the mind.
In hospitals, Njoki says, plants have been shown to help patients heal faster. Those with a view of greenery tend to be calmer and give better clinical assessments.
"Mental health patients exposed to plants, whether indoors or outdoors, show signs of improved mental clarity and reduced stress," she says.
In caring for plants, Njoki has found a hobby that enriches her life and improves her mental well-being.
"Imagine taking care of a life that doesn't talk back to you, but still fills you with joy and satisfaction," she says, smiling as she looks at her garden. "Plants thrive in happy spaces, and so do we."
Over time, her garden has become a sacred space, a reminder of her resilience. The monstera, snake plant, Syngonium, and spider plant aren't just plants - they're symbols of her journey.
Every day they grow stronger, and so does she. When the weight of the world feels heavy, she knows she can always find peace in her garden.
So, she advises, the next time you feel the weight of the world, consider reaching out for a little green friend. It may not solve everything, but it can be a small step towards cultivating a space - both physical and mental - where peace can grow.
