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Illustration by Leonardo Cervantes<\/p>\n
UTA sits in the heart of Arlington, which is, in turn, the heart of Dallas-Fort Worth. This urban jungle offers many opportunities for students while they further their education.<\/p>\n
But being surrounded by concrete can be detrimental to some, as contact with nature is essential for community well-being. <\/p>\n
Heather Arterburn, biology associate professor of instruction and director of undergraduate laboratory education, said that while it\u2019s hard to pinpoint, a lot of people feel a connection when they\u2019re out in nature. <\/p>\n
\u201cEven just looking up at the trees, just for a minute, kind of gives you this sense of peace,\u201d Arterburn said. \u201cIt\u2019s a really great relaxation technique.\u201d <\/p>\n
This connection doesn\u2019t have to stop with trees or other outdoor vegetation, as students can bring nature into their dorms.<\/p>\n
One benefit of having plants in the bedroom is added natural beauty. <\/p>\n
\u201cEnvironments can be really artificial and sterile, and so when you bring in plants or animals or anything organic, it makes it feel more alive,\u201d Arterburn said. <\/p>\n
According to Plantura, a sustainable gardening magazine, plants in the bedroom make it easier to relax and unwind so it\u2019s easier to get a good night’s sleep. <\/p>\n
Another benefit plants provide is a better indoor climate. According to the magazine, some plants are able to filter the air, absorbing pollutants and creating more oxygen. <\/p>\n
According to The Sill, an online company dedicated to making plants more accessible in daily life, these are some beginner-friendly plants that need watering every one to two weeks, letting the soil dry out in between.<\/p>\n
Snake plant<\/p>\n
Available in varieties, snake plants are low-maintenance. They prefer medium to high indirect light but can handle low light, as well. <\/p>\n
Money tree<\/p>\n
Preferring high to medium indirect light, this plant could be ideal for dorms. <\/p>\n
Philodendron<\/p>\n
Available in many varieties, these plants prefer medium to bright indirect light or direct morning light. <\/p>\n
Anthurium<\/p>\n
These plants are known as the world\u2019s longest-blooming houseplant, according to The Sill. They thrive in bright indirect light. <\/p>\n
Arrowhead plant<\/p>\n
Getting their name from its arrowhead-shaped leaves, these plants prefer medium to bright indirect light, though they can tolerate low-light conditions. <\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s amazing how the tiny little details around us can impact how we feel and then carry forward in how we\u2019re interacting in the world,\u201d Arterburn said. <\/p>\n
@noah_logan_little<\/p>\n