A few months ago, the term “social distancing” was relatively unknown; now, it’s a permanent part of everyone’s vocabulary. Social distancing brings with it a host of mental, physical, and emotional effects, from fear and anxiety to boredom to anger and frustration. These feelings aren’t going away any time soon. Still, there is a way to help alleviate this “staying inside all day” fatigue: Flowers.
Multiple studies have proven the beneficial effects of flowers on a person’s wellbeing. Here are just a few of the ways that flowers can be a positive solution in these days of social distancing:
Stress Reduction
The fragrance and appearance of flowers have been proven to relax stressed nerves, lower heart rate, and improve a person’s mood. With so much stress and anxiety happening over job losses, distance from loved ones, and potential illness, there is no better time than now for people to have flowers in every room. While life seems to be in a constant state of “crazy,” flowers can bring a much-needed moment of calm.
Better Sleep
It’s pretty clear that people aren’t sleeping well these days; flowers can help with this. Fragrances such as lavender, jasmine, and gardenia have a relaxing and soothing power. By placing flowers in bedrooms, people can get a more restful night’s sleep and wake up to a beautiful, fragrant start to their day.
Improved Concentration and Creativity
With social distancing comes the need for children to study at home, and for people to work remotely. Flowers can help in both of these scenarios. According to research, in classrooms with flowers and plants in them, students have more creativity, better free -thinking skills, and more satisfaction. It’s the same for workplaces: Having flowers in the office increases problem-solving ability and creativity in employees. These positive effects will work just as well if the classroom and office are home -based—maybe even better!
Increased Happiness
Flowers can be an instant mood lifter. Brain chemicals such as oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin are released when a person has a positive reaction to flowers. These brain chemicals trigger feelings of bonding, excitement, and genuine happiness. Bright colors and beautiful fragrances can only increase these feelings, as they help keep people connected to nature while staying inside.
Strengthened Bonds Between People
We can’t touch each other right now, and can’t see each other—no handshakes, no hugs, no closeness. That makes the social value of connecting through flowers more critical than ever. Maybe people can’t touch each other physically, but they can connect emotionally through gifts of flowers.
DURING THIS UNCERTAIN PERIOD OF SOCIAL DISTANCING, IT’S MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVER TO PROVIDE SOME COMFORT. YOU, AS A FLORAL PROFESSIONAL, HAVE THE SOLUTION. GOOD LUCK!
