Sowing Smiles: The Real Reasons Why Flowers Make Us Happy
When was the last time you received a bunch of flowers? Do you remember how it felt? The warm feeling of absolute bliss and inner peace fills you with every whiff of the petals dancing in vibrant hues. Regardless of whether you are the thoughtful sender or the lucky recipient, flowers have that effect on people. Keep on reading to uncover the real reasons why flowers make us happy.
Nature’s Colourful Messengers
Credits to Ioann-Mark Kuznietsov
Flowers have long been one of the many ways of communication to express how we feel. Did you know that flowers have their own language? The language of flowers is called ‘Floriography’, which is used as a means of cryptological communication through the different colours and varieties of flowers, including how the flowers are arranged.
As the saying goes, “Flowers don’t tell; they show.” Which is why we do what we do. To help you convey your feelings to those you care about most through beautiful flowers. From happiness and love to forgiveness and farewells. Flowers are nature's colourful messengers and their positive effect is contagious. Let’s break down each one below.
The Real Reasons Why Flowers Us Happy
1. Triggers ‘Happy Hormones’
Credits to Giphy
Put on your smart pants and thinking caps; it is time to get sciencey. Flowers can instantly make you happy by triggering your happy hormones. The bright hues and delightful fragrance of flowers stimulate the release of dopamine, endorphins, oxytocin and serotonin, ushering in feelings of joy and peace.
Dopamine, for instance, is a neurotransmitter that is a part of the brain’s reward system. Dopamine is released when one feels pleasure and contentment, which is why this hormone is also known as the ‘feel-good hormone’. Our brains have recognised receiving flowers as a rewarding thing. Perhaps this is due to the positive associations flowers have. It could be as simple as flowers are just visually appealing or that flowers signal the arrival of spring.
2. Evokes Gratitude
Fleeting moments turned into cherishable memories, gift-giving highlights the beauty of human connections. Sending flowers to someone is just as, if not more, meaningful. The flowers create a tangible and captivating visual representation of the sender’s gratitude and appreciation to the recipient.
3. Inspires Love
Credits to Alina Komarevska
Nothing exudes love like flowers. Believe it or not, flowers promote the release of the love hormone, oxytocin. Also dubbed the ‘bonding hormone’ or the ‘cuddle chemical’, oxytocin is responsible for the sappy emotions we get when we are around our loved ones - romance or not. This brain chemical increases closeness and affection, making you feel euphoric.
Giving flowers is often seen as a romantic gesture between lovebirds but this is not always true. The act itself is an act of kindness and appreciation regardless of whether that person is your friend, family member or romantic partner. Flowers speak the language of love better than any language; they effortlessly communicate trust and effort in a relationship, inspiring feelings of love and intimacy through each petal - which brings us to our next point.
4. Strengthens Relationships
The act of giving and receiving flowers encourages us to reconnect. It sparks meaningful conversations and the sharing of emotions. Additionally, flowers help foster reciprocity. When an individual receives a gift from someone they hold dear, they are more likely to reciprocate. This mutual exchange builds trust and instils gratitude between individuals, thus deepening the bond and creating memorable experiences.
With trust and love in the picture, flowers will undoubtedly help strengthen relationships. Not to mention, your relationship with Mother Nature herself will also grow. Being in the presence of flowers can promote a sense of connection to nature. Flowers have a calming effect on the human psyche, making one feel more at ease.
5. Reduces Stress & Anxiety
Have you ever wondered why flowers have such a calming and uplifting effect on us? Well, it turns out there is a scientific explanation behind this blissful feeling. A study conducted by Bloom & Wild shows that flowers have the remarkable ability to positively influence both our mental and physical well-being by reducing stress levels.
Surprisingly, just 30 minutes of flower arranging can significantly lower blood pressure and heart rate, promoting a sense of relaxation.
Credits to Amina Filkins
Thanks to their bright colours and sweet scent, flowers create a sensory experience. They are essentially a delight for both your eyes and nose. Flowers also serve as natural air purifiers, enriching the space with freshness while also providing a therapeutic ambience.
This sensory stimulation triggers ‘happy hormones’ including serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps with mood regulation, which explains its presence in many antidepressant medications. If you or someone you care about are feeling stressed and anxious, consider bringing some flower power into your life or theirs.
Share Happiness With Flowers
In summary, flowers will not only brighten our day, but they also have a positive impact on our overall well-being. With everything going digital nowadays (even gift cards), it is easy to forget the beauty outdoors, overlooking Mother Nature's pretty gifts. So, despite the hustle and bustle of everyday life, remember to stop and smell the flowers.
Whether you are using flowers to express gratitude, celebrate a special occasion, or profess your love to your crush, the act of giving and receiving flowers is a beautiful way to connect with others and show that we care. That is where we come in. Browse our website and choose from a plethora of flower arrangements to ‘say’ how you truly feel. Go on, say it with flowers!
For customisations and enquiries, you can contact us here or on our socials at @lunafloral.my.