Flowers for Self-Care
May 09, 2024 | Wellness
The importance of self-care has become increasingly obvious, and here is where flowers come in!
Flowers play a crucial role in enhancing our mental well-being. They have the natural ability to boost our mood, alleviate stress and promote feelings of happiness — making them a natural tool for self-care:
Studies show flowers reduce stress and anxiety. Being around nature can help lower your cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress. Flowers have a calming effect on your brain and can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Additionally, flowers can improve your mood and boost your overall well-being. The sight and scent of flowers can help you feel happier and more joyful, making you more positive and energetic. A study conducted by Rutgers University found that the presence of flowers in the home can even lead to an increase in feelings of compassion and kindness towards others.
— Luther Burbank, American botanist and horticulturist
Nature offers a simple and accessible way to boost emotional health – flowers
They're not just pretty—they trigger happy feelings, satisfaction, and positive behavior beyond what we initially thought.
“What’s most exciting is that it challenges established scientific beliefs about how people can manage their day-to-day moods in a healthy and natural way,” says Dr. Jeannette Haviland-Jones from Rutgers.
Even small acts of self-compassion, like treating yourself to flowers, can have a big impact.
Here's why flowers are awesome:
- They instantly make us happy. Studies show people light up with joy and gratitude when they get flowers.
- They have long-term benefits, reducing depression and anxiety while increasing life satisfaction.
- They strengthen our bonds with loved ones.
- They're a unique gift and stress-reliever.
- They just make us feel good overall.
“Common sense tells us that flowers make us happy,” said Dr. Haviland-Jones. Now, science backs it up... "they have strong positive effects on our emotional well being.”
Adding flowers to your life can significantly reduce stress without much effort, says researcher Dr. Erin Largo-Wight from the University of North Florida. "In the midst of life's chaos, flowers offer a moment of calm," she explains.
And here's an interesting fact: Flowers aren't just for looks—they can aid physical healing too. Research suggests that having flowers around, like in hospital rooms, can lead to faster recovery. Patients with flowers in their rooms experienced fewer complications, needed less pain medication, and felt less anxious and fatigued.
Top tips for self-care
Incorporating flowers can be as simple as placing a vase of fresh flowers in your home or office. Or take a walk outdoors to surround yourself with nature. If you have a green thumb, consider starting a flower garden or growing indoor plants.
Here are ways to incorporate positive actions into your daily routine:
- Surround yourself with flowers: Browse your local grocery store’s flower department. The natural beauty of flowers can put you at ease and make everything smell divine!
- Color your world: Opt for vibrant hues like orange or yellow roses to add a pop of optimism to your space.
- Find peace: Calm your mind with soothing blues and lavenders. A small floral arrangement on your nightstand or in the bathroom can work wonders as you start and finish your day.
- Embrace nature: Take a stroll in the park, enjoy lunch outside, or explore nearby trails. Nature's magic reduces stress and boosts your well-being.
- Get moving! Exercise is vital for feeling your best. Whether it's a walk in the park or dancing to your favorite tunes, get that body moving!
- Freshen the air. Flowers not only look pretty but also purify the air, creating a healthier environment indoors.
- Go on a road trip to a place you've never been before. Pack a picnic, get tickets to a show, or spend the evening star-gazing. It's a great break for both your mind and your body!
- Treat yourself: Indulge in simple joys like buying yourself flowers. They're heart-openers that help you focus on the positives in life.
- Spruce your space: A strategically placed vase can elevate any room's vibe. Bright flowers at the door welcome you with warmth.
- Create calm: You’ll be amazed how many small arrangements you can get out of a single bouquet. Place a few stems throughout your home for constant reminders to ‘stop and smell the roses.’
- Aromotherapy bliss: Essential oils extracted from flowers, like lavender and jasmine, can work wonders. Use them in diffusers, baths, or massages for some ultimate self-care.
- Spread joy: Surprise a loved one with a flower delivery. It's a simple gesture that brings joy — and gives you a boost too!
- Practice gratitude: Start a journal and jot down what you're thankful for. It's a powerful form of self-care that boosts happiness and positivity.
- Get creative: Spend time dabbling in art, crafting or flower arranging. It doesn't matter if you're not an expert — just let your creativity flow!
- Pay it forward: Grab two bouquets — one for yourself and one to brighten someone else's day. Spread kindness with a simple act. Floral providers—here are more ways you can be involved.
Resources
- https://safnow.org/aboutflowers/quick-links/health-benefits-research/emotional-impact-of-flowers-study
- https://safnow.org/aboutflowers/quick-links/health-benefits-research/stressless
- https://ellisonchair.tamu.edu/health-and-well-being-benefits-of-plants
- https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/07/090722110901.htm
- https://journals.ashs.org/horttech/view/journals/horttech/18/4/article-p563.xml
Treat yourself to a new bouquet to brighten your living space — you deserve it
Flowers bring people together, and it's important to find ways to brighten your or your loved one’s day. We are committed to growing sustainabile, farm-fresh, premium quality roses and flowers to help you live your best, most joyful life.
posted in: Wellness
tags: flowers, self-care, mental health