The Power of Flowers
Have you ever heard the expression "Flower Power"? Often, we think of the 1960's and hippies wearing embroidered flowers as a way of expressing peace and happiness. As members of the flower industry, we have always had an inkling that there may be something more behind flowers and happiness. After all, we get to witness first-hand how flowers can bring happiness and smiles to a person.
In fact, the slogan has roots of truth, according to a 10-month behavioral study conducted by Rutgers University. The study was aimed at exploring the link between flowers and life satisfaction, and according to their findings, flowers are apparently a natural moderator of moods and they even have strong positive effects on emotional health.
The subjects of the Rutgers’ study received deliveries of flowers and other gifts, such as candles and fruit. As can be expected, most gifts received a positive reaction; however, the highest response rate occurred when receiving flowers, and their studies showed that the positive feelings lasted two to three days.
- Flowers have immediate impact on happiness. Remarkably, all study participants, in every age group, expressed pleasure and delight when receiving flowers. Reactions included surprise, genuine happiness, and gratitude, all exceptionally positive emotions.
- Flowers have a long-term positive effect on the mood. Study participants reported feeling less depressed, anxious, and agitated after receiving flowers. They also demonstrated a greater sense of life satisfaction.
- Flowers create intimate connections, and giving and receiving flowers create positive contact between family and friends.
Color Characteristics
Tradition dictates that certain flowers and colors are associated with specific occasions. However, in terms of emotional health, color choices take on different meanings.
Red, traditionally associated with love and romance, has a positive effect on the immune system. Consider sending red flowers to someone who has recently had surgery, or experienced an illness. Red is also an energizing color for those who suffer from fatigue or exhaustion.
Violet has a calming effect on the mind and nerves. It is uplifting, and encourages creativity.
Astrantia Purple Joyce Patty's Plum Poppy
Tricytris "Dark Beauty" Toad Lily
Yellow, psychologically, is the happiest color in the spectrum. It symbolizes the sun, and invokes happy and radiant feelings. It is a friendly color that encourages communication. Yellow also stimulates the memory and the nervous system.
Exotic Sun Double Orienpet Lily Garden Treasure Itoh Peony
Orange conveys optimism and encourages socialization. It is also associated with determination and success.
Tiger Lily Orange Glow Oriental Poppy
Blue is most often named as a favorite color. Just as the blue sky and the blue ocean are considered constants in our world, blue is perceived as dependable and trustworthy. Blue invokes feelings that are calm, cool and sedate.
Delphinium Blue Indulgence Concord Crush Iris
Pink is associated with joy. Brighter pinks, similar to reds, stimulate energy, increasing the blood pressure, heartbeat and respiration. Softer pink hues convey a sense of sweetness and romance.
Pink Saffire Oriental Lily Joop Oriental Lily
White symbolizes openness. White blooms are most often associated with purity, honesty and perfection.
Casa Blanca Oriental Lily Polar Star Double Oriental Lily
Do you know someone who could use a lift today? Or maybe you could use an emotional boost yourself. Draw upon the power of flowers to improve your emotional health, or that of someone you love.