Fresh Flowers Are Good for Your Health

Flash back to the late 1960s and early 70s and you will hear the phrase "Flower Power". The movement that developed then, in opposition to the Vietnam War, was fueled by young people known as "hippies" or "flower children". They covered their clothing and vehicles in floral designs and wore blooms in their hair. Some handed out flowers to authorities or placed them into rifle barrels in the name of peace. The delicate symbolism of a freshly-cut blossom packed a powerful message of life and love.

The same holds true today.

The floral industry is a commercial giant for good reason. People are naturally drawn to the beauty of flowers, every bit as much as a pollinating bird or bee. We don't usually eat flowers, though some are edible, yet they are food for the senses and the soul. Flowers speak for us when words are not enough. Flowers convey the message, "I love you" or "I'm sorry" or "I'm thinking of you today". Flowers touch us on an emotional level so that our response to a floral gift is immediate and clear, no matter the occasion.

What are occasions for flowers? There are many traditional ones. Lovers give bouquets to woo romantic interest. Weddings abound with floral arrangements in celebration. Funerals would be barren without them. Then there's my favorite reason to give or receive flowers: Just Because.

Just because I saw these flowers and you came to mind.

Just because I knew you had a bad day.

Just because I know you love them.

Just because you're you.

What a gift from one heart to another. That's what flowers are. Numerous studies like the Home Ecology of Flowers Study conducted by researchers at Harvard University and led by Dr. Nancy Etcoff (cited here) show scientifically that fresh flowers make people feel better. We don't need science to tell us that. Our own reaction is the proof.