You all know Blue Monday, right? The dreaded date in the calendar that scientists have proclaimed to be the most depressing day of the year! The day that more ever, we all need a little pick me up! So, what about flowers?
I know, sometimes it can be difficult to justify giving someone flowers, if it isn't a birthday or a special occasion! More so, seen as an indulgence? However, mounting scientific research has shown that the flowers can actually boost your mood and inevitably, make a person happy. Yes, that's right & since a bunch of flowers is cheaper than retail therapy and doesn't have the calories, splurging out on a bunch of flowers to decorate your home or desk at work is certainly a treat you can justify this January!
Flowers can boost your mood and positive well-being
The smallest things in life seem to make people the happiest! Flowers is one of those things. After all,Jeannette Haviland-Jones,lead researcher of Psychology at Rutgers found that 'flowers are a natural mood enhancer and moderator. Boasting an instant impact on happiness – regardless of whether we view them in nature or are given them as a gift.' In the American Journal of Evolutionary Psychology, research found that women who received a bunch of flowers reported more positive moods for up to three days and that elderly people improved their episodic memory.
Convinced yet?
Not only does it boost your mood, but it is linked to wellbeing. Research (Park & Mattson, 2008) has found that patients in hospital rooms brightened with flowers and potted plants reported lower rates of pains, anxiety, stress, fatigue and high blood pressure than those recuperating in rooms that didn’t. (Although sadly, in case you are considering purchasing for an ill relative or friend, flowers have now been banned from hospitals because they pose a "health and safety" risk!) In fact, flowers in dining rooms are also a good idea — researchers from Wageningen University in the Netherlands studied restaurant diners and found that people with fresh flowers on their tables seem to be in better moods!
Scent, Shape and Symbolism
You may be surprised to know that the shape, smell and symbolism can have an impact on the flowers we like and inevitably buy. The fragrance of flowers can affect the brain. For instance, the chemical known as phenylethylamine gives roses their signature scent. Ultimately, this chemical holds an amino acid that slows the breakdown of beta endorphins; beta endorphins are hormones responsible for making us feel euphoric and in love. Other flower scents help promote sleep, relaxation and health. Further to this, flowers elevate mood through colour. It is relatively well-known that certain colours can effect the brain differently. It is yellow, peach, warm pink, and subtle greens that are nurturing colors. Pinks and purples evokes feelings of intimacy, and nostalgia. Reds, oranges, and hot pinks are sensuous and passionate. Blues, greens, and purples are calming and relaxing colors. Finally, symbolism is a well-practiced art. Thelanguageofflowers, sometimes called floriography, is a means of cryptological communication through the use of flowers. Not only do flower varieties have meaning, but the different colours of varieties have meaning. Take roses, red conveys romantic love, courage and passion, yellow joy gladness and friendship, while white symbolises purity and innocence.
Why not try it yourself this Blue Monday? Whether it be for yourself, a relative or friend, for your brand or even to promote happiness in the workplace!
For delivery before Monday (15th January), you have until Tuesday 11pm to place your order online for the perfect 'pick up' flowers this January! Visit Triangle Nursery's website or contact us directly on 01394 385 832 for fabulous blooms at amazingly LOW prices!
Find Case Studies of brands that have done just that to promote happiness and spread cheer on Blue Monday on the streets of London in my previous blog 'How your Brand can Beat the January Blues'
Thank you for reading my article! I hope you have enjoyed reading the article on Flower Power and the positive impact they can truly have - comment below and share your feedback!
About the author
Laura Kenny, works for Triangle Nursery, one of the largest Online Flower Wholesalers selling and delivering Fresh Flowers & Accessories Nationwide to Everyone! Our clients range from florists, suppliers, PR agencies, stylists, designers, event planners, DIY weddings, the list simply goes on! For more articles and information about Laura, visit LinkedIn profile or email directly at laura@trianglenursery.co.uk
FAQs
Researchers have discovered that flowers have immediate and long-term effects on our happiness. Having flowers in your home can make you feel happier, less stressed, and more relaxed. In one study, individuals who received flowers reported feeling less anxious and having more enjoyment and life satisfaction.
Do flowers cheer you up? ›
Flowers can boost your mood and positive well-being
After all, Jeannette Haviland-Jones, lead researcher of Psychology at Rutgers found that 'flowers are a natural mood enhancer and moderator. Boasting an instant impact on happiness – regardless of whether we view them in nature or are given them as a gift.
Do flowers have the power to heal? ›
No longer simply tradition and superstition, healthcare facilities have embraced the presence of flowers, recognizing their ability to create a soothing environment and improve the overall well-being of patients. Scientific findings identified that being around flowers and plants has a restorative effect.
Can flowers make someone feel better? ›
Being in the presence of flowers triggers happy emotion and heightens feelings of life satistifaction. In a study done by a team of researchers at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, it was proven that flowers have a positive effect on people's moods.
Do flowers boost your mood? ›
Flowers do more than just brighten your room, they can have an uplifting and brightening effect on your mood too. But more than just a hit of happy, research has shown that the impact can last for days, so way more powerful than that bar of chocolate and significantly less calories!
Do flowers help anxiety? ›
“Flowers lower stress levels and anxiety in people,” says Christine Capra, program manager at the Horticultural Therapy Institute in Denver. “Even stress levels related to depression are decreased by having flowers, whether it's in your outdoor garden or in your home or going to visit a botanic garden.”
What is the happiest flower? ›
Daffodils: These bright blooms have been named the number one flower for enhancing people's moods. Yellow is a color that is often associated with happiness, so it comes as little surprise that a vase brimming with beautiful daffodils will instantly perk up your day!
What is the most healing flower? ›
Let's take a look at some of the best flowers with healing powers.
- Roses. One of the most stunning and romantic flowers money can buy, roses are a wonderful way to show your affection for a loved one. ...
- Lavender. ...
- Sunflower. ...
- Verbena. ...
- Foxgloves. ...
- Marigolds. ...
- Peony. ...
- Evening Primrose.
Do dead flowers hold bad energy? ›
As per Feng Shui rules these dead or dried flowers release dead energy into the air making the room negative. A lack of positive 'chi' can cause an adverse effect on your health. Chi in Feng Shui means the energy in your room, and having strong chi inside your home is a sign of having good energy in your home.
What are the powers of flower? ›
Flowers create intimacy. Flowers give happiness not only to the lucky recipient but to the giver as well, making a connection between people as few other gifts can. The Rutgers study found that flowers were by far the gift people appreciated the most.
Your plants really dislike when you touch them, apparently. A new study out of the La Trobe Institute for Agriculture and Food has found that most plants are extremely sensitive to touch, and even a light touch can significantly stunt their growth, reports Phys.org.
Are flowers scientifically proven that make you feel better? ›
Flowers create a lasting positive influence on mood. Specifically, after receiving flowers, study participants reported feeling less agitated, depressed, and anxious. They also exhibited a greater sense of happiness and satisfaction in their lives. Flowers create connections and build relationships.
Why do I feel so connected to flowers? ›
The concept of biophilia suggests that humans have an innate connection to nature. Flowers, being a part of the natural world, can trigger positive feelings by tapping into this inherent connection. The act of giving or receiving flowers is also often associated with positive social interactions.
Do flowers cheer people up? ›
Nature has an incredible effect on mood and mental well-being. Gifting flowers is noted to improve emotional health overall. Flowers are a natural and healthy way to help manage day-to-day moods and increase or encourage positivity.
What is the most emotional flower? ›
Hydrangeas: Hydrangeas are large, bushy flowers that symbolize heartfelt emotions. Their full, heavy heads can be seen to symbolize the collective emotion of a group, making them suitable for expressing shared sorrow and grief.
Can flowers feel your energy? ›
Tompkins and Bird conducted experiments like playing music, talking to the plants, and creating vibrations to prove their theory. We have yet to scientifically verify that that plants have feelings. However, we do know that they can pick up on energies and sense. It's a phenomenon that's both perplexing and amazing!
What flower to cheer someone up? ›
Daffodils are the epitome of hope and positivity making them the best flowers for cheering up. Sending a bouquet of these cheerful blooms can be like sending a bundle of joy and encouragement to your special person.
What flower means cheer up? ›
Sunflowers
The unmistakable vibrancy of sunflowers are known to exude positive energy and these are the perfect flowers to cheer someone up because it symbolises joy, adoration, constancy, and loyalty.
Why do flowers make me so happy? ›
And it's not just their smell that makes us feel good - it's the sight of flowers too. Flowers are visually stimulating, and when we see them, our brains release serotonin, which is also associated with happiness. This way, they also keep stress and anxiety at bay.
Do flowers bring positive energy? ›
Flowers can improve the flow of positive energy, absorb negative energy, and enhance energy levels. They also purify air, increase the sense of well-being and reduce stress. The Peace Lilly, for example, gives homes a sense of spirituality.