Flowers – Sunshine for the Soul! How Floral Colour Influences Relaxation and Positive Uplift
Spring has arrived, and as flowers begin to bloom across the gardens, it's the perfect time to consider how these natural wonders can enhance your emotional well-being. Research has shown that the natural environment, including floral landscapes, holds immense power in restoring mental health, and flower colours specifically play a significant role in uplifting and relaxing the mind. With this in mind, Root Down's walk-and-talk therapy sessions, held in serene gardens like the Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens, provide a unique opportunity to connect with nature and promote emotional well-being. Let's explore the science behind floral colours and how they might influence your therapy journey.
The Science of Flower Colours and Well-being
According to a study by Zhang, Dempsey, and Cameron (2022), flower colours significantly impact emotional responses, including feelings of relaxation and uplift. The study surveyed over 600 participants to understand how different flower hues influence mood and discovered fascinating insights.
Blue and White Flowers: These colours were most commonly associated with feelings of relaxation and stress reduction. If you're looking for a calming environment, spending time among blue or white flowers might help alleviate tension and promote mental clarity.
Orange, Yellow, and Red Flowers: These warmer tones were linked to emotions of uplift and positivity, making them excellent choices for enhancing mood and generating a sense of happiness. They evoke excitement and enthusiasm, which can be a wonderful boost if you're feeling low or in need of inspiration.
Interestingly, white flowers were found to have a dual effect, promoting both relaxation and uplift, depending on the context.
How Does This Relate to Walk-and-Talk Therapy?
Root Down's walk-and-talk sessions are designed to harness the therapeutic power of nature. With flowers blooming in full splendour, now is an ideal time to enjoy the relaxing and uplifting benefits that floral landscapes can offer.
When we walk together through the Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens or the Olinda Botanical Gardens, you're surrounded by a rich variety of flowers, offering a balance of colours that cater to different emotional needs. Whether you're seeking to reduce anxiety, relieve stress, or simply experience a mood uplift, the environment plays a vital role in supporting these outcomes.
Tailored Therapy, Personalised Colour
Another interesting finding from the study is the personal preference for colour. Regardless of what research says about general emotional responses to colour, your favourite colour can have unique restorative effects just for you. If you find comfort or joy in a particular flower or colour, it may play a pivotal role in your emotional recovery during your therapy session.
At Root Down, we incorporate this understanding into our therapeutic approach, ensuring your walk-and-talk experience resonates with your personal preferences and needs. By combining the emotional power of floral colours with structured Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques, we create a space where you can feel relaxed, uplifted, and ready to tackle life’s challenges.
Why Nature-Based Therapy?
The restorative potential of natural environments is well-documented. As discussed in the study, spending time in green spaces and experiencing colourful, blooming flowers can help alleviate mental fatigue, reduce physiological stress, and contribute to a more positive mindset. By combining this natural therapy with guided counselling sessions, Root Down offers a holistic approach to mental well-being.
So, as the gardens burst into colour this season, consider how these vibrant displays of nature can enhance your therapeutic experience. Join me for a walk-and-talk session and let the beauty of nature provide the emotional uplift or relaxation you need. The combination of natural therapy and the power of floral colours might just be the sunshine your soul needs.
Let’s take the next step in your well-being journey, surrounded by nature’s most powerful mood enhancers – flowers!
Book Your Walk-and-Talk Session Today
At Root Down Horticultural Therapy and Counselling, we believe in the power of nature to heal. With spring in full bloom, there’s no better time to experience the benefits of flower-filled landscapes as part of your mental health journey. Whether you’re feeling stressed or need an emotional boost, our walk-and-talk sessions provide the perfect blend of therapy and nature. Contact us today to schedule your session and take the first step toward a brighter, more balanced you.
Reference: Zhang, L., Dempsey, N., & Cameron, R. (2022). The influence of flower colours on preferences, feelings of relaxation, and positive uplift. Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, 127795.
