Flowers have long been admired for their beauty and fragrance, but could they also hold surprising health benefits?
Some believe that keeping fresh bouquets in our homes can improve our well-being, boost our mood, and even support better physical health!
What Do Doctors Say? Flowers Can Enhance Well-Being
According to Dr. Raj Dasgupta, a pulmonary specialist, flowers and plants can contribute to a healthier environment. While some plants may trigger allergies in sensitive individuals, most have a positive effect on indoor air quality. They release oxygen, helping us breathe more easily, and add moisture to the air, which can soothe dry skin, ease sore throats, and reduce coughing.
Research even suggests that hospital patients with flowers in their rooms tend to need less pain medication and experience lower anxiety levels. The natural humidity produced by plants can help prevent dryness in our nasal passages, which is essential for reducing the risk of infections, especially during colder months.
What Do Psychologists Say? Flowers Can Boost Our Mood
Dr. Dak Kopec, an environmental psychologist, explains that flowers help us track the passage of time. Because different flowers bloom in different seasons, they subconsciously remind us of progress, making them great for setting and achieving personal goals. Whether we are working on fitness, career growth, or personal development, flowers can serve as uplifting visual markers along the way.
Flowers also engage two of our most important senses: sight and smell. Their vibrant colors and pleasant fragrances naturally stimulate positive emotions, creating a sense of happiness and relaxation. While houseplants contribute to stress reduction, fresh flower bouquets carry even stronger emotional associations, often reminding us of celebrations, love, and joy.
For maximum impact, experts recommend placing flowers in high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms, where we will see them frequently. However, we should ensure they remain fresh—wilted flowers might subconsciously signal neglect or lost time, which could dampen our mood.
What Do Interior Designers Say? Flowers Create a Healthier Living Space
Interior designer Sarah Barnard emphasizes that natural elements, including flowers, are crucial for a balanced living space. This concept, known as biophilic design, reflects our deep connection with nature and its calming effects on our mental health.
Incorporating fresh flowers into home decor can make a space feel more inviting and peaceful. Placing a bouquet in a visible spot, such as on a bedside table, can set a positive tone for the day. Imagine waking up and seeing a beautiful arrangement of fresh flowers instead of a blank screen—this small change can uplift our mood and reduce stress before the day even begins.
While flowers won't cure illnesses, they can certainly enhance our environment, improve our mood, and even support better health by increasing humidity and reducing stress.
Whether we choose flowers for their fragrance, beauty, or emotional benefits, they are a simple yet powerful way to create a more joyful and refreshing atmosphere in our homes!
