On the first-floor balcony of Kerala University's botany department, a thoughtfully designed vertical garden offers students and visitors a calming refuge filled with air-purifying plants and soothing natural elements.
- Vertical garden cleans indoor air by removing formaldehyde
- Healing garden concept promotes mental and physical well-being
- Sustainable design with eco-friendly materials
What happened
Fourth-year PhD student Reshma PR at Kerala University transformed a balcony in the botany department into a vertical garden named Viridescent Haven. This 50-square-foot space is planted with locally available indoor air purifying species like sansevieria, spider lily, hemigraphis, drosera, and lucky bamboo. Her research focuses on plants' ability to remove formaldehyde, a common indoor pollutant from paints and detergents.
Under the supervision of Dr. Bindu R Nair, an expert in plant molecular biology and phytochemistry, Reshma designed the garden following the university’s green protocol, using biodegradable pots and eco-friendly materials. The garden includes a small waterfall, wind chimes, and natural sound elements to create a peaceful environment near the university library.
Why it feels good
The Viridescent Haven is inspired by the healing garden concept common in hospitals abroad that aids physical and mental recovery. This indoor garden offers students and visitors a serene place to relax, promoting mental clarity and reducing anxiety by encouraging a half-hour of mindful presence without mobile phones.
Scientific studies show that cleaner air improves brain function by supplying more oxygen, which helps sharpen focus and concentration. The garden’s sensory elements, including gentle water sounds and soothing wind chimes, contribute to mental healing by lowering stress and enhancing mood, leading to improved well-being overall.
What to enjoy or watch next
Visitors are encouraged to spend time in the Viridescent Haven to experience the mental refreshment and physical benefits of cleaner air. The garden stands as a model for how sustainable, nature-based spaces can be integrated into educational institutions to support health and learning environments.
Future projects may explore adapting the healing garden concept for homes and other indoor spaces, helping more people benefit from natural air purification and calming atmospheres. Keep an eye on Reshma’s continuing research results and similar initiatives for practical ways to bring nature’s healing indoors.