If we ask any interior design specialist how an apartment should look to give us a sense of well-being, the answer will be to add flowers. In addition to their decorative effect, plants can also give us a sense of well-being, something confirmed by psychologists who often recommend that patients surround themselves with plants or even turn to plant therapy.
The pandemic led some people to discover a passion for plants, or to use them as a way to send well wishes to loved ones. A 2020 survey showed that, since the beginning of the health crisis, 25% of Romanians had purchased flowers without a specific reason.
Three-quarters of people say that houseplants had a positive emotional effect on them during the pandemic, according to a study conducted by a team of researchers from Spain, Greece, and Brazil.
Additionally, over 55% of survey participants said they would like to increase the number of plants in their homes. "Vegetation in indoor replacement spaces has positively influenced well-being during the lockdown period," say the study's authors.
Whether we're talking about flower bouquets or pots, vibrant or dried plants, they have the ability to support us during difficult times, says clinical psychologist Elena Culacenco. She has observed that ecological therapy and creating floral arrangements provide benefits for her patients, helping those who suffer from depression, stress, or loneliness.
From conventional therapy to plant-based psychotherapy
From ancient times, plants have been an integral part of human life. They have always been a vital source of food for us, helped us build our shelters, and some, like in or cotton, provided clothing.
Beyond these practical and concrete effects, plants also have more subtle effects, says Culacenco. They "facilitate sensory exploration and the development of cognitive skills and creativity, reduce stress and pain perception, enhance the immune response to respiratory viruses, improve the quality of social interactions, and help restore calm in states of anxiety," says the psychologist.
While plant therapy generally promotes well-being, it is not a technique suitable for everyone.
Regarding any form of psychotherapy, individuals may experience negative feelings such as distrust, annoyance or frustration, disappointment, etc., because therapy with plants and flowers also involves the presence of a person who guides the process, says Culacenco. This means being in a relationship, and relationships often involve negative feelings as well, from which, incidentally, change, reinterpretation, tolerance, and acceptance may stem.
Today, the presence of flowers creates positive emotions, making us more optimistic and relaxed.researchers found Researchers at Rutgers University in New Jersey, USA analyzed the behavior of people who receive flowers as gifts and concluded that they immediately experience feelings of happiness and joy.
