Summer plant break: unwind among plants and flowers

Breathe in(through) and breathe out(through)

Summer invites us to spend more time outdoors, yet we often forget to truly pause. We keep scrolling, keep rushing, or barely take the time to simply sit down. That’s exactly why a plant break is so valuable. A moment without screens. Without notifications. Just a mindful pause for yourself surrounded by greenery. Plants and flowers can also bring a sense of calm indoors. Clear your mind and let your gaze wander across your personal jungle. It doesn’t have to be complicated. A chair in the shade, a cup of coffee among your plants, removing a few dry leaves and watering all your green friends each day is enough to help you quite literally catch your breath.

By consciously sitting outside and focusing on the scents, colours and sounds around you, a greater sense of calm naturally emerges. This ties in beautifully with mindfulness: being fully present in the moment, without distraction or hurry. So, breathe in, breathe out, and take the time to soak up all that greenery, both indoors and out.

Why greenery helps you relax instantly

Green feels good. You may have instinctively known this already, but science also shows that nature helps us unwind. Research suggests that even a brief break, such as spending 40 seconds looking at a green or nature-like environment, can help support your attention and focus afterwards. You linger longer, breathe more slowly and feel more connected to your surroundings.

The effect doesn’t have to be dramatic. It’s often the small moments in nature that make the biggest difference. Standing barefoot on the grass, sitting among fragrant flowers or watching leaves move in the breeze can help release tension.

Create your own green siesta spot

You don’t need a large garden to create a relaxing outdoor space. Even a small balcony, patio or sunny corner can become a green place to recharge.

Choose plants of varying heights and combine leafy green plants with flowering varieties to create a calming atmosphere. Large green leaves provide shelter and a sense of comfort, while flowering plants add colour and softness.

Place plants close together to create a green cocoon where you can truly escape for a while. A comfortable chair, soft cushions and perhaps a few candles or lanterns will make it even more inviting.

Any plant that makes you happy and suits your outdoor space is perfect for a plant break. Love fragrant plants? Then choose a Lavender or a Plumbago. Have a balcony with lots of sunshine? Consider a Banana Plant or Jasmine. Plenty of shade? A Fern could be the perfect choice.

Take a green break

One of the loveliest ways to slow down mindfully is to enjoy a meal outdoors surrounded by greenery. Even a simple lunch or cup of tea feels instantly more special when you're surrounded by flowers and plants. Want to add even more greenery to your lunch? Try making a delicious flower-topped focaccia, a fresh summer salad or a small sweet treat to savour the moment. By consciously taking time to eat outdoors, you naturally create a peaceful pause in your day.

Create new outdoor rituals

The more often you spend time outdoors intentionally, the more you'll notice the positive effect it has on you. That’s why it’s worth turning it into a small ritual. Enjoy your morning coffee among the plants, read a book surrounded by greenery or end your working day with ten quiet minutes outside. By consciously building these small moments into your routine, relaxation becomes much more accessible.

More summer inspiration

Would you like to create even more atmosphere and tranquillity with plants and flowers this summer? Take inspiration from ideas such as moving your workspace outdoors, creating a minipond for extra cooling, or giving your terrace a summer makeover with colourful flowers and plants. Another lovely idea is to combine your plant break with a summer tablescape, fragrant herb plants or a green lounge corner where you can truly switch off. Or go for ultimate zen with a Japanese garden. Short on space? Consider vertical gardening. Another tip for making the most of every square metre: combine greenery with edible plants.