Life gets more hectic every day. Having a calming and inviting home environment is essential for our well-being. People have many ways to cope with the stresses of everyday living, but one that might get overlooked is a gas fireplace. Why a gas fireplace and not a wood-burning one? Gas fireplaces are convenient, clean, and easy to operate — exactly what you need to destress. They can significantly improve your mental health and your home’s décor. Hopefully, this guide will inspire you to consider installing a gas fireplace to improve your mental health and well-being.

The Psychology of Fire: Why It Soothes Us

Like the wind and the ocean, fire is a destructive and calming force rooted deep in our evolutionary history. For thousands of years, fire has given us warmth, safety, and a place to bond with friends and family.

Watching the flickering flames hearkens back to a simpler time when stoking the fire was crucial for survival. This connection to fire has carried over to today. Studies show that gazing at a fire can lower blood pressure and reduce stress levels.
A gas fireplace provides these benefits without the hassle of wood. With a button press, you can enjoy a roaring fire with its soothing ambiance that takes you away from the day’s stress and chaos.

Stress Reduction & Relaxation

Most of us are chronically stressed. Chronic stress is a significant contributor to poor mental health. According to the American Psychological Association, 77% of people regularly experience physical symptoms associated with chronic stress and 73% experience psychological symptoms.

The warm glow and gentle sounds of a gas fireplace create an environment where people suffering from chronic stress can relax. Sitting by the fire — even for only 15 minutes — can reduce cortisol levels. Cortisol is the stress hormone. Whether sipping tea, reading a book, or meditating, the atmosphere created by the gas fireplace promotes tranquility and peace of mind.

Encouraging Mindfulness and Presence

Mindfulness — being present in the moment — is known to improve mental health by reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. But achieving mindfulness is nearly impossible, with all the distractions of our day-to-day living. A gas fireplace gives you something to focus on and encourages you to let the day’s worries fade, even for a little while.

Strengthening Connections

Social connections are vital for our mental health. Studies show that people who have strong ties with others are 50% more likely to live longer than those without. A gas fireplace creates a natural gathering place in the home where you can be with family or friends. Having conversations and deepening relationships are key to boosting mood and acting as a buffer against feelings of isolation and loneliness.

Fighting Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) According to the Mayo Clinic, “Seasonal affective disorder is a type of depression that’s related to changes in seasons — seasonal affective disorder begins and ends about the same time every year.” Experts believe that SAD comes on due to reduced sunlight and shorter days in winter. The warmth and light of a gas fireplace can help combat this condition by creating a cozy, bright, and uplifting environment. A gas fireplace can also improve the effectiveness of your self-care routine. Paring the fireplace with activities like journaling, yoga, or curling up with a blanket can make winter feel less daunting and more enjoyable.

The Importance of Good Mental Health

According to Gallup, “The percentage of U.S. adults who report having been diagnosed with depression at some point in their lifetime has reached 29%, nearly ten percentage points higher than in 2015.” Other stats about mental health are just as alarming. Over 40 million adults in the U.S. suffer from anxiety disorders, making it the most common mental health condition.Major depressive disorder affects nearly 17.3 million adults annually.

Nearly 36% of Americans report feeling lonely frequently, which is a significant factor in the nation’s mental health decline. This isn’t to say that a gas fireplace is the silver bullet that can cure all mental health conditions; one should still seek professional help for severe cases. However, incorporating a gas fireplace into your home can create a warm, inviting, and calming sanctuary, helping you manage stress and brighten your mood.

Keystone is the local expert in fireplaces. We have a variety of gas fireplaces, inserts, and stoves and can help you find the perfect model for your home and budget. Contact us today to learn more.