Rooted in Philosophy: Why We Bring Plants Into Our Homes

Exploring the Role of Plants in Creating Meaningful, Connected Living Spaces

Nov 20, 2024

Introduction

In recent years, houseplants have become ubiquitous in modern homes, from tiny succulents on windowsills to lush, sprawling monstera plants in living rooms. This trend is more than a decorative choice; it’s a growing cultural phenomenon. People are drawn to plants for their beauty and natural touch, but there seems to be something deeper at play. Why do we feel so compelled to surround ourselves with greenery indoors?

One answer lies in philosophy. The presence of plants in our personal spaces speaks to fundamental aspects of human experience, such as our desire for connection, meaning, and well-being. By exploring the insights of philosophers like Emanuele Coccia, Gaston Bachelard, and Martin Heidegger, as well as ecological thinkers like E.O. Wilson and Arne Næss, we uncover the layers of meaning plants bring into our lives. Each of these perspectives sheds light on how plants transform our homes into more than just shelters—they become spaces of reflection, growth, and interconnection with the world around us.

In this article, we’ll journey through these philosophical perspectives to understand why plants in our homes have become such meaningful companions. Through this exploration, we’ll find that these green beings are not simply aesthetic additions; they hold profound significance that touches on our relationship to life, nature, and the world.

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The Home as a Space of Connection: Emanuele Coccia’s Perspective

Philosopher Emanuele Coccia, in his book La Philosophie de la Maison, explores the concept of the home as more than a shelter—it’s a space that actively shapes our experiences, identities, and interactions with the world. For Coccia, the home functions as a “moral ecosystem,” where the elements we choose to surround ourselves with reflect our values, relationships, and desires. Our homes are not isolated structures but permeable spaces, constantly mediating the relationship between our private selves and the larger world.

In this light, plants become much more than decorative objects. They embody the porousness that Coccia describes, acting as bridges between the indoors and outdoors, life and stillness, nature and human-made space. Plants bring the rhythms of nature into the home, introducing cycles of growth, decay, and renewal. By caring for these living beings, we participate in an ongoing relationship with life’s natural processes, and our homes become sites of connection rather than isolation.

Moreover, plants create a dynamic interaction between humans and their environment. They adapt to our spaces, react to sunlight, respond to touch, and even emit signals that reflect their health and well-being. In this way, plants foster a sense of cohabitation and mutual exchange within our homes. Each plant becomes a small, green companion, inviting us into a continuous dialogue with nature and subtly reminding us that our lives are intertwined with those of other living beings.

Coccia’s philosophy suggests that by filling our homes with plants, we are making a statement about who we are and what we value. Plants are not just passive decorations; they are active participants in the creation of a meaningful, connected space. They remind us of our place within a larger ecological network and encourage us to view our homes as living environments that nurture both our inner lives and our relationships with the natural world outside.

Heidegger and the Concept of Dwelling

German philosopher Martin Heidegger introduces the idea of dwelling in his seminal work, Being and Time. For Heidegger, dwelling goes beyond simply inhabiting a place—it’s an intentional and reflective way of existing in harmony with the world. Dwelling involves a deep sense of presence, care, and mindfulness in our relationship with our surroundings, recognizing that we don’t just occupy space; we interact with and shape it, and it, in turn, shapes us.

Plants in our homes play an important role in cultivating this sense of dwelling. When we bring plants indoors, we’re engaging in a kind of relational care that reflects the essence of Heidegger’s concept. By tending to plants, we nurture life, participate in a reciprocal relationship, and develop a rhythm that aligns with the natural cycles of growth, rest, and renewal. Each watering, pruning, or repositioning of a plant becomes a moment of connection, grounding us in the present and reminding us to appreciate the life around us.

Moreover, plants in the home invite us to dwell with an awareness of time and change. Unlike static objects, plants grow, adapt, and react to their environments. Their slow, quiet development reminds us that dwelling requires patience and attentiveness. In a world driven by speed and productivity, plants encourage us to slow down, observe, and engage with the world on a more natural, human scale.

Heidegger’s philosophy suggests that by integrating plants into our homes, we’re creating spaces that support a mindful and harmonious way of being. We’re not just filling our spaces; we’re cultivating a way of life that values care, attentiveness, and connection to the rhythms of nature. Through this practice, our homes become sites of dwelling in the truest sense, encouraging us to engage deeply with our environment and embrace a slower, more intentional existence.

Bachelard’s Poetic Space: Plants as Invitations to Wonder

French philosopher Gaston Bachelard, in The Poetics of Space, explores the home as a place of imagination, memory, and reverie. For Bachelard, a home is not merely a shelter; it is a poetic space—a setting where the soul is nurtured, where moments of wonder and introspection unfold, and where memories and emotions are intertwined with physical surroundings. This poetic nature of the home is enriched by objects and experiences that invite us to pause, observe, and dream.

Plants, with their quiet vitality and natural beauty, fit perfectly into this concept of the home as a poetic space. Unlike inanimate objects, plants are constantly changing, subtly altering the environment over time. They bring a sense of mystery and growth to a room, reminding us of the beauty of transformation and the cycles of life. The sight of a newly unfurling leaf or the gentle curve of a vine reaching for sunlight becomes a moment of quiet awe, a point of reflection that connects us to the essence of life itself.

Furthermore, plants encourage us to use our senses in a mindful way. Bachelard believed that poetic spaces evoke memories and stimulate imagination, and plants do precisely this. The scent of a flowering plant, the texture of its leaves, the play of light filtering through its foliage—all these sensory experiences create a meditative, imaginative atmosphere in the home. Plants invite us to explore, to slow down, and to engage with our surroundings in a way that fosters reflection and creativity.

Through Bachelard’s perspective, plants transform our homes into poetic spaces where the mind is free to wander and the soul is free to rest. They offer a gentle reminder that our homes can be spaces of contemplation and connection, where the mundane becomes magical. By bringing plants into our living spaces, we embrace the poetic potential of our homes, cultivating an environment that nurtures both the body and the imagination.

Biophilia: E.O. Wilson’s Hypothesis and the Innate Human Connection to Nature

E.O. Wilson, the American biologist, proposed the biophilia hypothesis, which suggests that humans have an innate desire to connect with nature and other forms of life. According to Wilson, this “love of life” is deeply embedded in our biology, shaping our mental and emotional well-being. In modern urban environments, however, we are often surrounded by artificial structures and materials, which can create a sense of isolation from the natural world. Bringing plants into our homes fulfills this intrinsic need, offering a direct link to nature within our daily living spaces.

Plants in the home provide a range of mental health benefits. Studies have shown that indoor greenery can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance cognitive function. Plants also support physical health by purifying the air and regulating humidity, fostering an environment that feels refreshing and life-sustaining. For Wilson, the presence of plants is not only beneficial; it’s essential. They reawaken our primal connection to the natural world, reminding us of the ecological web we are part of and offering a sense of grounding in a fast-paced, often disconnected society.

Wilson’s hypothesis suggests that by integrating plants into our homes, we create environments that support psychological and emotional balance. The act of caring for plants—watering them, ensuring they receive light, watching them grow—engages us in a nurturing relationship, which can be deeply fulfilling. This small but significant connection with nature can improve our overall well-being, satisfying our biophilic urges and reducing the effects of nature deprivation often experienced in urban life.

Through Wilson’s lens, houseplants are more than decorative elements; they are essential companions that restore our mental and emotional balance, fulfilling our innate need for nature. By surrounding ourselves with plants, we reconnect with the natural world and allow ourselves to feel more centered, calm, and engaged with life’s rhythms.

Deep Ecology and Environmental Consciousness: Arne Næss’s Philosophy

The Norwegian philosopher Arne Næss, founder of the deep ecology movement, advocates for an ecological worldview that recognizes the intrinsic value of all living beings. Deep ecology calls for a profound shift in how humans relate to nature—not as resources to exploit, but as interconnected parts of a larger, balanced ecosystem. This philosophy emphasizes that human well-being is inextricably tied to the health of our environment, urging us to adopt practices that respect and nurture the living world.

When we bring plants into our homes, we enact a small yet meaningful embodiment of Næss’s philosophy. Houseplants become reminders of our connection to the broader ecosystem, a tangible reflection of our responsibility to care for life around us. By integrating plants into our personal spaces, we acknowledge their intrinsic value, honoring their role as living beings that contribute to a balanced environment. In this way, the act of tending to plants cultivates not only a sense of personal fulfillment but also a deeper ecological awareness.

Deep ecology also advocates for simplicity and intentionality, values that resonate with the practice of caring for plants. As we water, prune, and observe the growth of our plants, we engage in a mindful relationship that resists the pace of consumer culture. Instead of seeing plants as disposable decorations, we nurture them as living entities with whom we share our space. This fosters a more sustainable approach to living, as we prioritize harmony with nature over transient trends or consumption.

Through the lens of deep ecology, plants in our homes invite us to practice ecological humility. They remind us that we are not separate from nature, but part of an intricate web of life. Caring for plants in our living spaces encourages a lifestyle that values balance, respect, and care for the Earth, reinforcing the idea that a truly fulfilling life is one that respects and preserves the world we share with other beings.

Transcendentalism and Nature as Spiritual Companion: Emerson and Thoreau

The transcendentalist movement, championed by Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau, emphasized a deep, spiritual connection between humans and nature. Emerson and Thoreau believed that nature was not only a place of refuge but also a source of inspiration, wisdom, and self-discovery. For them, communion with nature offered insights into the human soul, allowing one to experience a profound sense of unity with the world.

Bringing plants into our homes can be seen as a microcosm of this transcendentalist vision, creating a “domestic wilderness” that brings nature’s wisdom into our everyday lives. When we share our space with plants, we create a setting for quiet reflection and spiritual grounding. Plants remind us of the cycles of life, the beauty in simplicity, and the power of presence—values that Emerson and Thoreau celebrated in their writings. Houseplants, even in the midst of urban spaces, offer a slice of nature’s tranquility, helping us reconnect with our inner selves and find solace from the busyness of modern life.

Thoreau, known for his retreat to the woods of Walden Pond, argued that nature offered essential lessons on living with intention and authenticity. By caring for plants, we engage in a small act of mindfulness and intentionality. Each moment spent observing, watering, and nurturing a plant becomes a moment of reflection and connection, echoing Thoreau’s principle of “living deliberately.” In this way, our plants serve as spiritual companions, grounding us in moments of stillness and encouraging us to live with purpose and presence.

Through the transcendentalist lens, the plants in our homes are not just ornamental; they embody nature’s spirit and wisdom, offering us peace and inspiring us to live in harmony with our surroundings. They remind us of the importance of pausing, observing, and valuing life in its simplest forms, fostering a sense of unity with the world that lies beyond our walls.

Shinto and Animistic Perspectives on Plant Presence

In Shintoism and various animistic traditions around the world, plants, animals, and even inanimate objects are seen as possessing a spiritual essence or life force. Shinto, the indigenous spiritual tradition of Japan, holds that kami (spirits or deities) reside in all elements of nature. From this perspective, each plant is imbued with a unique, sacred presence that merits respect and reverence. Plants are not merely objects for human use; they are honored beings with intrinsic value, representing the interconnectedness of all life.

Bringing plants into our homes can be viewed as a modern echo of these animistic values. When we care for our houseplants, we engage in a ritual that acknowledges their living essence and the silent companionship they offer. Rather than seeing plants solely as decorative additions, we can view them as cohabitants, sharing our space and subtly influencing our mood and energy. This practice invites us to develop a respectful relationship with plants, recognizing them as beings that connect us to the larger web of life.

In a home filled with plants, there is a sense of presence that goes beyond aesthetics—a quiet vibrancy that can foster mindfulness, gratitude, and peace. By adopting an animistic perspective, we honor the plants’ roles not just as ornaments, but as symbols of life’s sacredness within our walls. This reverent approach can deepen our relationship with nature and encourage us to live with greater mindfulness and respect for all forms of life.

The animistic view teaches that by inviting plants into our homes, we’re not only nurturing our environment but participating in a ritual of interconnection, honoring the spirits or energy within each plant. In this way, the act of caring for plants becomes a form of communion with the natural world, reminding us to respect the life around us and fostering a home environment where both humans and plants thrive in harmony.

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Conclusion: Plants as Philosophical Companions in Our Homes

Bringing plants into our homes is much more than a trend or a way to beautify our surroundings. Through the lenses of various philosophies—from Emanuele Coccia’s view of the home as a moral ecosystem to Heidegger’s concept of dwelling, Bachelard’s poetic spaces, Wilson’s biophilia, Næss’s deep ecology, and the transcendentalist and animistic traditions—we see that plants profoundly enrich our lives and offer us a path to deeper connection, meaning, and mindfulness.

Plants remind us of our place within the intricate web of life. They invite us to engage in a mindful, caring relationship with the natural world, encouraging us to slow down, observe, and appreciate life’s subtle rhythms. This quiet companionship fosters our sense of well-being and satisfies our innate need for nature’s presence. The daily rituals of watering, pruning, and watching plants grow become acts of meditation, grounding us and inviting us to dwell fully in our spaces.

By honoring plants as living beings with unique presences, we cultivate a home environment that reflects our values, nurtures our imagination, and inspires a deeper respect for all life. Our homes become spaces where the boundaries between the interior and the exterior dissolve, reminding us that we are participants in a larger ecosystem. Through these green companions, we are invited to live with more intention, harmony, and reverence.

In a world often dominated by speed and artificiality, the presence of plants reconnects us to the Earth’s timeless cycles, bringing moments of tranquility and introspection into our everyday lives. Whether we are inspired by philosophical thought or simply moved by nature’s beauty, the act of bringing plants into our homes is a meaningful gesture—one that affirms our commitment to nurturing life and reminds us of our place in the grand, interconnected tapestry of existence.

PS. This week, find a quiet moment to sit with a plant. Breathe gently, letting your rhythm align with its serene presence, and open yourself to the stillness that only nature can offer. Allow this time to ground you, reconnect you, and remind you of the wisdom that quietly surrounds us. 🌿✨🪴☕🎶

For a musical companion, I’ve curated a playlist designed to enrich this experience and deepen your bond with the natural world. 🌱

Madame Planta Curated Playlist 🌱

Madame Planta