Do Fresh Flowers Have More Positive Effects on Us?

With their rich colors and enchanting fragrances, fresh flowers have long held a special place in human cultures. They are a natural marvel that has the incredible ability to uplift spirits, pacify souls, and even heal our bodies. Be it the unassuming daisy in your backyard or the exotic orchids in distant botanical gardens, both have a deep positive impact on people.

Certainly, the natural spectacles that flowers are, not only add vivacity and splendor to our surroundings but also have so many benefits including an intense positive influence on our well-being. And for this, they have been – and continue to be – celebrated for these capabilities that they hold.

The Science of Floral Positivity

The positive effects of flowers on human emotions and mental well-being have been well-documented for ages, and science is increasingly revealing the secrets behind this natural phenomenon.

Throughout history, flowers have been used as symbols to convey various emotions and messages. This floral language, known as floriography, dates back to the Victorian era and is still appreciated today. Flowers can express love, friendship, gratitude, sympathy, and much more. The mere sight of an attractive bouquet is enough to brighten someone's day and strengthen social connections, nurturing positive relations.

One of the most remarkable effects of flowers is their ability to reduce stress. A study conducted by Harvard University found that the presence of flowers in the home not only increases feelings of happiness but also reduces feelings of anxiety and depression. The sight and scent of flowers can trigger the release of mood-enhancing chemicals in the brain, such as dopamine and serotonin. Essentially, the vibrant colors of flowers stimulate our senses and evoke positive emotions, which can lead to an improved mood and increased happiness.

Additionally, flowers have long been recognized for their healing properties. In the field of alternative medicine, various flowers are used to promote physical and emotional well-being. For example, lavender is known for its calming properties and is often used to alleviate stress and aid in sleep. Chamomile flowers are used to soothe digestive issues and promote relaxation. Echinacea flowers are believed to boost the immune system and fight off infections. These examples highlight the therapeutic potential of flowers and their contribution to holistic healing practices.

Flowers are also natural mood boosters. The bright and cheerful colors of blooms, whether it's the sunny yellows of sunflowers or the calming blues of forget-me-nots, have a direct impact on our emotions. They can lift our spirits, make us smile, and provide a sense of happiness.

In addition to their healing and mental health benefits, flowers can also enhance productivity and creativity. Research suggests that having flowers in the workplace can increase concentration, focus, and productivity. The sight and scent of flowers stimulate our senses, making us more alert and engaged in our tasks. What is more, flowers have been found to spark creativity and innovative thinking. Their beauty and intricacy inspire one to think outside the box, encouraging fresh ideas and problem-solving skills. In essence, within office environments, the presence of flowers and plants has been shown to increase focus and creativity, while the natural beauty of blooms can inspire fresh ideas and a sense of calm, making them a perfect addition to working areas.

More over, flowers have been linked to improved mental health. Gardening, in particular, has been found to reduce the risk of developing mental health disorders like depression and anxiety. The act of nurturing plants and watching them grow can be a therapeutic and rewarding experience.

Still yet, beyond their impact on mental health, flowers may also have direct physical health benefits. Another study suggested that exposure to fresh flowers and greenery can reduce the risk of mortality from all causes, especially among women.

The Artificial Flower Question

In recent days, there has been an inflow of artificial flowers. So popular have these flowers become that they can be found in all places, and just as easily. You can read more about artificial flowers and how they are perceived.

Yes, they may be low maintenance and long-lasting compared to naturally grown flowers. They may also offer an easy alternative to natural flowers, eliminating the need for watering, sunlight, and other care requirements. But, thinking of it, that’s perhaps where their benefits end.

When it comes to environmental well-being, human health, and sustainability, the use of artificial flowers raises some important considerations.

Sustainability and Environmental Conservation Concerns

These flowers are typically made from non-biodegradable materials such as polyethylene, polyester, or nylon, which are all materials that can take hundreds of years to decompose, contributing to the ever-growing problem of plastic waste. When discarded inappropriately, they can end up being a nuisance in landfills or find their way into natural ecosystems, where they can harm wildlife and pollute waterways.

Furthermore, their production involves the extraction of fossil fuels and the emission of greenhouse gases. Their energy-intensive manufacturing processes also contribute to air pollution and carbon emissions and as a result, they have quite a significant carbon footprint throughout their life cycle. This heightens the already pressing issue of climate change.

When evaluating the sustainability of artificial flowers, it would be crucial to consider their long-term environmental impact. While these flowers may seem like a sustainable choice due to their longevity and reduced resource requirements, their production and disposal contribute to environmental degradation in the long run.

What About Health Considerations?

Artificial flowers may not pose immediate risks. Quite unlike real fresh flowers, they may not trigger allergies or release pollen that can cause respiratory problems in sensitive individuals. However, the materials used in their production may contain potentially harmful chemicals.

Think of phthalates and other elements used in making plastic. These substances can be released into the air over time, particularly in poorly ventilated indoor environments, and may have adverse effects on human health.

Are They Good for Your Mental Well-Being?

While artificial flowers may lack the natural beauty and fragrance of real flowers, without a doubt, they still provide aesthetic appeal and contribute to a pleasant environment, especially for people with busy lifestyles or those who lack a green thumb. These flowers offer the convenience of long-lasting beauty without the need for regular maintenance.

Yet, studies suggest that exposure to natural elements, including naturally growing flowers and plants, can have positive effects on mental well-being, which is hardly the case for artificial flowers. Simply put, artificial flowers hardly possess the same benefits as real flowers, even though they can still provide some sense of visual satisfaction and contribute to a calming effect.

But then again, it is important to note that the psychological impact of artificial flowers may vary from one person to another, and their preference for natural beauty may not be entirely replicable.

How Can You Bring the Positive Effects of Fresh Flowers Into Your Life?

While visiting famous flower gardens can be a remarkable experience, you don't need to travel far to enjoy the positive effects of flowers. By yourself, you can incorporate more blooms into your daily life in different ways.

You could, for instance, engage in gardening. Cultivating your own garden, whether it's a small balcony garden or one in your backyard, can be a deeply rewarding activity. The mere experience of watching your plants grow and bloom provides a sense of accomplishment and gratification.

In floral arrangements and compositions, you can also treat yourself to fresh flowers regularly. A vase of blooms in your home has the ability to lift your spirits and create a more pleasant living environment.

You can also revel in the experience of aromatherapy where flowers present you with an opportunity to explore the world of essential oils, including lavender, rose, and jasmine, and to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of floral scents. Diffusing these oils or adding a few drops to your bath can enhance relaxation and reduce stress.

What's more, you could take a leisurely stroll in your local park or botanical garden to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of flowers and nature. This simple act of being surrounded by greenery and colorful flowers can have a calming and rejuvenating effect.

Then there is the prospect of getting imaginative by incorporating flowers into your art and crafts projects. Pressed flowers, floral paintings, and handmade flower arrangements are all brilliant ways to express your appreciation for blooms.

Positivity Is a State of Mind, and Fresh Flowers Enhance It... Naturally!

While it, on occasion isn’t always easy to achieve positivity, more so during a period of depression or loss, flowers can enhance it, improving not just one’s positive outlook on the world, but also health and mental soundness.

The positive effects of fresh flowers on our well-being are, therefore, undeniable. From reducing stress and improving mood to promoting better mental and physical health, flowers have a profound impact on our lives.

You could, therefore, choose to explore the numerous flower gardens available or simply bring a bouquet of fresh flowers into your home. Or alternatively, just smell the subtle aromas of the flowers that you grow in your backyard garden as you tend them.

To promote sustainability and environmental conservation, it is prudent to explore alternatives to artificial flowers. Opting for locally grown, seasonal, and organic flowers can significantly reduce the carbon footprint associated with flower production and transportation. Additionally, choosing biodegradable materials for flower arrangements or considering dried flowers can be more eco-friendly alternatives.

In the end, making conscious choices and decisions means contributing to environmental conservation, protecting human health, and enjoying the beauty of nature in a more sustainable manner.

Feature image by @jadynmariehicks on Instagram, header image by Léonard Cotte on Unsplash.