It has long been established that being surrounded by nature improves our mood and relieves tension, but what if you could replicate that calming vibe at home? The key to improving your mental health might be filling your house with flowers.
“Sian Wild, the FlorismartUK florist and owner of The Flower Lounge, an award-winning shop in Didsbury, says: “I’ve been surrounded by flowers and plants all my life and have first-hand knowledge of how they raise the mood of anyone they cover, having grown up in a horticultural family. The correlation between exposure to flowers and plants and positive psychological health is consistent. Here, Sian exclusively reveals the six flowers that can reduce stress, improve mood and aid a restful night’s sleep.
1) Chrysanthemums improve mood
“Flowers do more than brighten your room; they can have an uplifting and brightening effect on your mood too. Research has shown that the impact can last for days, proving much more powerful than a bar of chocolate,” says Sian.
Flowers can drive away anxieties, fears and blues, making people feel less sad, troubled or irritated. It connected to their colour, scent or even the act of giving flowers or receiving them. “Chrysanthemums have shown to lessen symptoms of worry and stress, and when taken as a tea, this flower cools and relaxes our body.”
2) Snake plants boost productivity.
“Whether in the workplace or a home office, flowers and plants are proven to improve performance. Enthusiasm, energy and job satisfaction are all reported side effects, so flowers are well worth investing in if you work long hours or a need regular pick-me-up,” Sian says.
The scent can help alleviate anxiety and is the perfect solution to tension around impending deadlines or juggling the to-do list, helping you tackle the pile of work mounting.
The Snake plant increases energy levels and can benefit those with eye pain, headaches, or breathing issues. Other benefits include improving reaction times, increasing concentration and lowering levels of anxiety.”
3) Lisianthus encourage creativity
“Fresh flowers can ignite creativity. Inspiration, new ideas and the ability to problem-solve are all proven, positive effects of plants and flowers in the workplace, generated by a boost in mood and general happiness,” explains Sian.
Take flower arrangement as a creative outlet, you will not only learn a new skill, but you will also be closer to nature.
“Red flowers, such as ruby Ranunculus, are connected to concentration and attention to detail, whilst blue stems, such as delicate anemone or pretty Lisianthus, encourage creativity and free-thinking.”
4) Jasmine aids sleep
“In our physical and mental wellbeing, sleep plays an important role. Without it, we can have trouble making decisions, solving problems, or dealing with change. Emotions can also get out of control very quickly.” Sian explains
Jasmine and lavender have been shown to lower stress and anxiety levels, induce peace, boost sleep, minimize heart rate, and are therefore perfect additions to the bedroom.
5) Calendulas help heal
“Flowers are proven to help reduce recovery time. Although flowers no longer permitted in hospitals, if someone is ill or recuperating at home, a thoughtful bunch of blooms can generate a sense of wellbeing. Flowers will reduce blood pressure and heart rate levels,” Sian says.
“Bright yellow or orange Calendula flowers are known for their antibacterial, antiviral and anti-fungal properties. Often used externally to ease inflammation and heal wounds and rashes, Calendulas can also take internally to stimulate blood circulation and speed up recovery from colds and fevers.”
6) A surprise bouquet of any bloom raises a smile.
“Imagine turning around someone’s day through one, simple gesture. To know that they are loved and supported, can mean so much that the positive impact of receiving a bouquet can be enough to lift them out of a difficult place or low point,” describes Sian.
“Flowers are a perfect solution to communicate emotions where it’s hard to find the right words.”
