The Psychological Benefits of a Fireplace
While you might think that a fireplace is simply there to keep you warm in winter, there is in fact so many more ways that a fireplace can benefit you.
Research has been done that shows just how good a fireplace is for your emotional wellbeing. Dr Christopher Lynn, a psychological and medical anthropologist, carried out various tests to explore the reactions of volunteers after being exposed to virtual fire. The study was carried out at the University of Alabama and took three years to complete. The result was that it was discovered that even if a person was exposed to a video of a fireplace, they calmed down.
Blood Pressure
We all know how mesmerising it can be to stare into the dancing flames of a fire and we know how relaxed we feel when we do so. But why is that?
Staring into the flames of an open fireplace decreases the blood pressure.
Even the crackling noise that a fire makes reduces blood pressure and increases relaxation. In the study mentioned above, participants were exposed to the sight of a fireplace but not the sound, others were exposed the sight and crackling sounds of a fireplace. Those that heard the sounds showed a deeper relaxation that those that only saw the fire in the fireplace.
The longer the participants watched the fire burning in the fireplace, the greater their state of calm.
Relaxing the Mind
Meditative gazing at a fire helps the mind relax. In many cultures, fire has been used a method of meditation.
The longer the roaring flames attract our attention, the more we relax. We forget about the struggles of the day and a peaceful, non-distracted state of mind emerges which causes anxiety to naturally decrease.
Connection
People are social animals that need to stay connected to others in order to live happy, and healthy, lives. When people are feeling relaxed in front of a fireplace, connection is encouraged as conversations flows and people socialize with each other.
Conclusion
So, the next time you are sitting in front of an open fireplace, take time to connect with the people around you. Stare into the flames and allow your mind to relax. A fireplace is so much more than just an alternative way to heat your home in the winter months. Although even the financial benefit of heating your home with fire rather that appliances that use electricity, has a great mental benefit too!
Call Cape Chimneys to install a fireplace in your home or restore and repair the one you already have. Be ready for those cold winter nights and enjoy the mental and physical wellbeing that goes along with a warm and wonderful open fireplace.
