How Flowers Can Improve Our Mental Health ft. The Flower Shops *

AD, Gifted | It’s well known that getting outside, especially in nature, is a great way to improve our mental health. In fact, research has shown that people who surround themselves with flowers, and other forms of natural beauty, – both indoors and out – experience reduced stress, decreased symptoms of depression, and increased creativity.

But it’s not only our mental health feeling the positive effects. There are also physical benefits too; from a reduction in blood pressure, heart rate, and fatigue, increased energy, and even using nature as a form of exercise, for example hiking.

Some flowers, such as lavender, can also aid sleep – which I happen to use in my own self care routine. So why is it many people still assume that the only ways to improve mental health involve expensive counselling or medication. Because, the truth is there are actually many creative, hands-on methods that are effective too. And getting in touch with nature is just one of them. 💐

With that in mind, I’d like to share six ways flowers can be added to our daily routines to help improve our mental health.

Buy flowers for yourself

Think about the last time you received flowers, or sent them as a gift, how did you (or the recipient) feel? Did it make you smile?… If so, why not head out to your local supermarket, or florist, and treat yourself to a bunch of flowers? Because, you certainly deserve them! Not only will it make you feel good but you’ll also be showing yourself that you deserve this treat.

Order flowers for yourself

Another great option is to have a bouquet delivered straight to your door, and I was lucky enough to receive a beautfiul bouquet from ‘The Flower Shops‘ * earlier this week.

Who are The Flower Shops?

The Flower Shops are a UK based florist network who offer beautiful floral arrangements from locations all over the country. The flowers they picked out for me were delivered by ‘Make Their Day’ florist *, which had the added bonus of being fairly local to me too! I love supporting local businesses when I can.

Sadly, I wasn’t home to accept the beautiful delivery, but my dad was. He even commented on how pleasant the delivery lady was, which was lovely to hear. 😊

The flowers themselves were their ‘Wild About You’ * bouquet which was a pink and red arrangement largely made up of roses and lillies. Which happen to be two of my favourite flowers! 🌹

One of the great things about The Flower Shops is that each of their bouquets is delivered with a guaranteed 7-day freshness. My own bouquet was delivered 5 days ago now and it still looks vibrant and smells beautfiul. I have them displayed on my kitchen windowsill and the smell easily follows me down the hallway, without being overpowering.

If you’re not completely satisfied with your order for any reason, ‘The Flower Shops’ network will resend fresh flowers, or refund your money, whichever you prefer. Which, I think, is great customer service. 😊

Take up gardening

Get back to nature

Whether it’s a walk in your local park, visiting an arboretum or national trust site, or simply sitting out in your garden, it doesn’t matter. What matters is getting outside in the fresh air. My favourite way to spend time outdoors is a long walk followed by a picnic. But another great option would be to try forest bathing, which is known to be both calming and a great mood booster. I’ve spent a few afternoon’s sitting in my local park and it just feels so relaxing.

Try flower arranging

If you prefer more hand made gifts, why not join an
online class, or find a local workshop, and learn how to create your own gorgeous floral arrangements. You could either pick flowers from your own garden or use some from your local supermarket. Who knows you may even find yourself a new hobby, which has its own mental health benefits. For example, giving you a sense of purpose.

What other ways can flowers be used to improve our mental health? Share your ideas in the comments. 🌺