Does Floral Arranging Really Relieve Stress?
That’s right, we said “arrange flowers to reduce stress,” and we mean it. Inspired by New York’s own lifestyle florist, Isabel Tan — aka prettyfrowns — she has confirmed a new version of girl therapy. Establishing roots in her city apartment, Isabel is feeling the benefits of monthly themed dinners with friends AND a monthly floral refresh.
WHAT:
Drop the ‘screen time’ and shear, not scroll.
HOW:
“Working with my hands helps me with my anxiety, I have a hard time staying still honestly. This was the perfect hobby that was stimulating and creative.”
WHAT:
A visual mood lifter.
HOW:
“Taking inspiration from the colors of the flowers that are in season has made me add more colors into my wardrobe. Plus it’s always hard to be in a bad mood when you have beautiful fresh flowers around the apartment.”
BONUS: Isabel’s favorite summer blooms? Snapdragon & Orchid Cymbidium. Don’t be afraid to take inspiration from these florets and incorporate more color into your clothing palette by adding hued accessories and mix matching different color tones. A current trend seen a lot this summer in stripes.
WHAT:
Practice brings peace.
HOW:
“You need to have the courage to be bad in order to be good. My first 5-10 arrangements were so bad. Start with grocery store flowers to keep the cost low, Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s have great selections especially during peony season.”
Having something to look forward to and enjoy in our free time, just for ourselves, is critical to finding balance and attainment. Arranging fresh flowers is another way to prioritize the much needed me time. “Finding a hobby as an adult has brought me so much fulfillment outside of work, it’s a great way to keep our inner child alive.”
ISABEL TAN’S FLORAL STARTER KIT:
A Kenzan flower frog — you can create beautiful arrangements with lesser flowers by using them — and a good pair of shears.