The tradition of giving flowers as a gift goes back to ancient times prior to recorded history. And there’s a good reason why it remains so popular: The gift of flowers truly lifts the spirits of the recipient.
Is there science to back the idea that the gift of flowers can boost a person’s mood? The answer is yes—in fact, you can even experience improved mental health by being around flowers on a regular basis.
Here’s a quick look at what you should know.
Flowers and their ability to stimulate the brain and relieve stress
Flowers are associated with relief from symptoms of depression and anxiety. Throughout the decades, research has found older adults who received flowers as gifts also experienced improved moods and better performance on memory tests.
There’s a reason why horticulture is an activity often provided at assisted living facilities and nursing homes. Gardening is an activity many seniors enjoy, but it also has benefits for memory and mood.
Flowers and the benefits of aromatherapy
Certain aromas have been shown to have beneficial effects on the brain. Roses, for example, contain a chemical called phenylethylamine, which gives roses their scent. The chemical contains an amino acid that leads to a slower breakdown of beta endorphins, the hormones that make people feel emotions like joy and love.
There are other types of chemicals producing aromas that also promote relaxation, general wellness and improved sleep.
Flowers and how their colors affect the brain
Colors evoke certain emotions and sensations, which is why marketing teams spend so much time considering color in their materials. They want their target audience to immediately create an emotional association or connection with their brand based on the colors they use.
The same is true with flowers. Flowers can affect mood through the colors they feature. Colors such as green, yellow, light and warm pinks and peach colors are nurturing types of colors. Blues, greens and purples are all calming and relaxing. Bright or bold-colored flowers provide joy and a celebratory feeling.
This is why color should always be a key consideration in any bouquet you put together for a friend or loved one; colors are strongly tied to emotions, and you want your recipient to feel positive, beneficial emotions when they receive the flowers.
Flowers and their healing touch
Flowers have been shown to affect healing rates of hospital patients, often accelerating healing times when placed in patient recovery rooms. In some cases, views of gardens through hospital windows have also been associated with reduced time for healing, and horticultural therapy (i.e., patients caring for plants) is often used to improve recovery time and results.
So, can flowers benefit your brain? Are flowers good for mental health? The answer is an undeniable yes. To give the gift of improved mood and happiness, browse our selection at The Delicate Daisy – House of Flowers, and be sure to reach out to our team if you have any questions about what we have in supply.