Floral Oasis: The Benefits Of Having Fresh Flowers In Your Home
Photo from Relax Cook & Decorate
Can you guess what the fastest way to decrease stress and promote a balanced physical and psychological well-being is?
Display fresh cut flowers at home!
According to the American Psychological Association, ecopsychology examines the relationship between nature and our well-being. More specifically, ecopsychology explores how the amount of time we spend outdoors affects our mental and physical health.
The positive impact that getting outside can have on our health is fairly common knowledge, but researchers have been working to demonstrate these effects with data. As a result, more people are realizing that the time we spend in nature could be an antidote to stress. Results from recent studies provide a strong case for the benefits of spending more time outdoors.
If You Can’t Get Outside....
When I am outside, I love how the flowers and trees make me feel. My mood instantly lifts when I take in the beauty and wonderful smell of fresh flowers. Going outside promotes calm feelings that may contribute to lower blood pressure and stress hormone levels, reduce nervous system arousal, enhance immune system function, increase self-esteem, reduce anxiety, and improve mood. (Yale School of the Environment)
If you can’t get outdoors, bring a piece of the outside inside with some fresh flowers! The Department of Health at the University of North Florida conducted a study demonstrating the positive effects of living with flowers on stress levels.
Besides the physical medicinal benefits flowers provide, they can also offer aromatherapy for our mental well-being. One flower that is well known for its aromatic benefits is lavender. A 2020 study suggests that lavender oil aromatherapy helped to reduce the effects of anxiety and depression in healthy individuals. Lavender is one of my favorite scents to use when I want to relax. That’s why Soleado Lavender Farm in Montgomery, Maryland, is on my list to check out ASAP! The farm is currently closed due to COVID, but when it reopens, you can pick your own lavender and purchase lavender-infused products.
Similarly, roses emit a soothing scent known to promote restfulness. This is another great flower to have in your bedroom that will help you fall asleep if you have trouble, like me. In fact, aromatherapy can have powerful effects on your home. I talk more about the power of scent in your home here.
Photo from Relax Cook & Decorate
Tips & Tricks: How To Keep Flowers Fresh
Believe it or not, fresh flowers can last for up to 3 weeks, depending on the type of flowers used and additional measures taken. Check out these standard tips + some old wives’ tales from Southern Living.
Cut stems diagonally
This move allows the flower to suck up more wate,r leading to longer life. Do this right before you arrange your flowers.
Watch the temperature
It’s best not to place flowers in direct sunlight or an environment that is too hot. Putting the arrangement in the fridge overnight is also an option that helps to keep flowers fresh.
Remember to check water daily
Water should be changed if it becomes cloudy. Cloudy water indicates bacterial growth, which may kill your flowers faster.
Some old wives’ tales and tricks to consider
A spritz of hairspray may help flowers stay perky. A little lemon-lime soda can provide acidity and sugar, both of which help sustain flowers. Apple cider vinegar helps slow bacterial growth and provides food for bacteria. Vodka slows ethylene production, so flowers take longer to wilt. Adding crushed aspirin may lower the water pH level, thus preserving flowers longer. Lastly, throwing a penny into the water may keep bacteria at bay, thanks to its copper.
Use flower food if available.
Fresh cut flowers are usually sold with a small packet of flower food. This packet will keep most flowers fresh for about two weeks. It’s still a good idea to monitor the water, ensuring it remains fresh and does not need to be refilled. Also, remember to discard any wilted flowers.
Great places to get fresh flowers on a budget:
Trader Joe’s (my favorite!)
All Eddie’s locations (local to Baltimore)
B. Willow (local to Baltimore)
Most local supermarkets have reasonable prices on fresh flowers