January has a way of feeling heavy. The holidays are over, daylight is scarce, and winter seems to stretch endlessly ahead. People experience lower energy and reduced motivation: the January blues.

One of the simplest ways to counteract this seasonal slump is with houseplants. Beyond their decorative appeal, plants improve air quality, reduce stress, and create a sense of life and renewal inside your home when the world outside feels frozen.

Here’s your winter-approved guide to the best plants for beating the January blues.

Why Plants Help Your Mood in Winter

Science consistently shows that indoor plants:

• Reduce stress and anxiety

• Improve concentration and productivity

• Increase feelings of well-being

• Improve indoor air quality

• Add colour and life to gloomy spaces

In winter, when fresh greenery is scarce, the psychological impact is even stronger. Caring for plants also provides routine, purpose, and a sense of growth which are all powerful antidotes to winter stagnation.

1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)

If January had its own plant, it would be the snake plant. Nearly indestructible, it thrives on neglect, tolerates low light, and improves air quality by filtering toxins.

Why it helps your mood:

• Tall, architectural leaves bring life to dark corners

• Releases oxygen at night, supporting better sleep

• Perfect for beginners

Pet Parents: Keep this one away from your cats and dogs.

2. Peace Lily

Peace lilies bloom even in winter, producing creamy white flowers that feel like a promise of spring. They thrive in indirect light and add softness to any space.

Why it helps your mood:

• Reduces airborne toxins

• Raises humidity (great for dry winter air)

• The flowers bring brightness when you need it most

Pet Parents: Keep away from cats and dogs.

3. Pothos

Pothos is the ultimate mood-booster. Its trailing vines create visual movement and life, and it grows quickly, offering that satisfying sense of progress in a month that often feels stagnant.

Why it helps your mood:

• Easy care, fast growth = instant emotional win

• Thrives in low light

• Adds lushness to any room

Pet Parents: Keep away from cats and dogs.

4. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

The ZZ plant laughs at winter. It handles low light, dry air, and inconsistent watering.

Why it helps your mood:

• Glossy leaves reflect light and brighten dim spaces

• Provides structure and calm

• Great for anyone who feels “too tired to plant-parent” in January

Pet Parents: Keep away from cats and dogs.

5. Aloe Vera

Aloe is useful and beautiful. Its gel can soothe dry winter skin and minor burns, making it both comforting and practical.

Why it helps your mood:

• Bright green colour feels fresh and hopeful

• Creates a sense of nurturing and self-care

• Low maintenance

Pet Parents: Keep away from cats and dogs.

6. Rubber Plant

If your home feels dull in January, a rubber plant changes the energy instantly. Its large, glossy leaves make a statement and bring a sense of vitality.

Why it helps your mood:

• Strong visual presence boosts emotional warmth

• Improves air quality

• Makes any room feel alive and intentional

Pet Parents: The American Rubber Tree Plant (Peperomia obtusifolia) is non-toxic; use the scientific name when buying to ensure safety!

7. Herbs (Basil, Mint, Rosemary)

Herbs grow well indoors during winter and adds fragrance, flavour, and purpose.

Why they help your mood:

• Caring for edible plants feels grounding

• Fresh herbs elevate winter meals

• Their scent can reduce stress and boost energy

Pet Parents: Generally safe in small amounts, but be warned: mint is similar to catnip for some cats!

8. Orchid

Orchids bloom for months and feel like living art. In January, their elegance feels especially restorative.

Why it helps your mood:

• Long-lasting flowers bring beauty and optimism

• Requires attention and mindfulness

• Adds a touch of warmth and sophistication

Pet Parents: Non-toxic for your cats and dogs (but if you use insecticides or fertilizers, be sure to use non-toxic varieties.)

How to Create a January Garden at Home

You don’t need a jungle; even three or four well-placed plants can change the emotional temperature ofyour home.

Try:

• One statement plant (rubber plant or snake plant)

• One trailing plant (pothos)

• One flowering plant (peace lily or orchid)

• One functional plant (herb or aloe)

Cluster them where you spend the most time during winter: your living room, home office, or kitchen.

The Real Magic of Winter Plants

In January, plants remind us that growth is happening, even when it feels like everything is frozen. They create softness, hope, and movement in a season that can feel still and heavy.

From Speculators to Specialists: The Evolving Story of Calgary’s REALTORS

As a REALTOR celebrating two decades in Calgary’s dynamic real estate market, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the incredible transformation of our city and, indeed, our profession. Beyond buying and selling homes, the role of a real estate agent in Calgary has evolved dramatically since the city’s early days. It’s a story of growth, professionalization, and continuous adaptation to serve our clients better.

The Early Days: Land Speculation and Frontier Ambition (Late 1800s - Mid-1900s)

Calgary’s real estate journey truly began with the arrival of the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1883. As a burgeoning frontier town, land was plentiful, and opportunities for quick wealth were abundant. The earliest “agents” were often more akin to land speculators, individuals with a keen eye for property who facilitated sales, often with little formal training or regulation. Transactions were simpler, usually based on handshake deals and local knowledge, far from the standardized contracts and ethical guidelines we know today.

As Calgary grew through its ranching, agricultural, and early oil booms, the need for more structured property transactions became apparent. Yet it wasn’t until the mid-20th century that the profession truly began to formalize.

The Rise of Professionalism: Regulation and Brokerages (Mid-1900s - Late 1990s)

In the mid-20th century, particularly after the Second World War, Calgary experienced significant population and economic growth. This era led to increased demand for consumer protection and professional standards in the real estate industry.

• Formal Licensing: Provincial legislation introduced formal licensing requirements for real estate agents and brokers. This ensured a baseline of knowledge and ethical conduct, moving away from purely informal transactions.

• The Brokerage Model: Agents primarily operated under licensed real estate brokerages. This structure provided supervision, training, and a legal framework for handling client funds (trust accounts). Brokerages became the central hubs for real estate activity, offering a unified presence and accountability.

• Industry Associations: Organizations like the Alberta Real Estate Association (AREA) and the Calgary Real Estate Board (CREB) emerged as key pillars. They developed professional standards, educational programs, and a Code of Ethics, elevating the profession’s credibility. It was also during this period that the trademarked term REALTOR came to signify a licensed professional adhering to these higher standards.

During this period, the agent’s role was primarily to serve as a gatekeeper of information. They held the keys to listings, market data, and transactional knowledge, guiding clients through a process opaque to the general public.

The Digital Revolution and Modern Specialization (2000s - Present Day)

The dawn of the 21st century and the advent of the internet completely revolutionized the real estate industry.

• Information Accessibility: The most significant shift was the widespread availability of information. When MLS® listings went online, buyers and sellers suddenly had access to property details that were once exclusive to agents. This changed the REALTOR’s role from a gatekeeper to a trusted interpreter and advisor.

• Technological Tools: Digital photography, virtual tours, sophisticated CRMs, and online marketing platforms have become indispensable. Agents had to become tech-savvy to market properties and connect with clients effectively.

• Evolving Client Expectations: Today’s clients are more informed and expect instant communication, deep market analysis, and a personalized experience. Agents now specialize in everything from specific neighbourhoods and property types (condos, luxury, investment) to niche client groups (first-time buyers, downsizers).

• The “Human Element” Endures: Despite all the technological advancements, the core value of a REALTOR remains the human element: negotiation skills, local market nuances that data alone can’t capture, emotional intelligence, and problem-solving through complex transactions. My two decades in Calgary have reinforced that while tools change, the need for a trusted advisor who understands our unique market, neighbourhood by neighbourhood, is constant.

Looking Forward

The real estate profession in Calgary will continue to evolve, likely embracing even more advanced technologies like AI and predictive analytics. However, the foundation laid over decades—professionalism, ethical conduct, and dedicated client service—will always remain at the heart of what a REALTOR does.

It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m immensely proud to be part of Calgary’;s real estate story, helping my clients navigate this ever-changing landscape. I look forward to many more years of serving you and our thriving city!

West Hillhurst was annexed into the city in 1907. Development was slow until after World War II, when many Victory homes were built for returning soldiers, some of which still stand today. The area later saw expansion and redevelopment through the latter 20th century into the present, with a steady mix of older homes and newer infill projects shaping its character.

Residents benefit from a range of amenities within and near the community:

• West Hillhurst Community Association offers programs, fitness space, ice rinks, sports fields, community events and seasonal activities.

• Riley Park has green spaces, playgrounds, wading pool and a cricket pitch.

• Nearby Kensington Village has boutique shops, trendy cafes and restaurants.

The area is served by great schools and is well-connected by transit. Multiple bus routes and nearby LRT stations make commuting into the broader city convenient, and bike paths provide scenic routes to the core.

Real Estate Snapshot

West Hillhurst’s market reflects its desirability as an inner-city neighbourhood, strong demand, limited inventory, and a broad range of housing types.

Typical Prices & Market Trends

• Average home price: Around $1.0M+

• Detached homes: Many listed from roughly $900K+, with higher-end properties reaching several million.

• Condos: Average around $500K, with a range from mid-$200Ks to well over $1M for luxury units.

• Townhomes: Often average around $1M+, though lower-priced options exist.

• Days on market: Data suggests homes often move quickly (in some reports median days on market is very low).

Housing Variety

West Hillhurst offers a diverse housing stock:

• Charming post-war bungalows

• Modern infill homes

• Townhomes and condos

• Larger family homes near park and river areas

As you can see, West Hillhurst stands out as a desirable and dynamic place to call home. It’s no wonder it’s my favourite community!