15/02/2016
With so much stress and depression in today's world, it's great to know that something as simple as a bouquet of flowers can help to cheer someone up.
Science: Flowers bring people happiness
The Society of American Florists, partnered with the world renowned researcher, Jeannette Haviland-Jones of Rutgers University, researched the effect of flowers on human emotion and well-being. Over a 10-month period, some very interesting results were discovered.
Here are five main points as condensed from her report:
* Flowers have an immediate impact on happiness.
Study participants expressed true or excited smiles upon receiving flowers, demonstrating extraordinary delight and gratitude. This reaction was universal, occurring in all age groups.
* Flowers have a long-term positive effect on moods.
Study participants reported feeling less depressed, anxious and agitated after receiving flowers, and demonstrated a higher sense of enjoyment and life satisfaction.
* Flowers make intimate connections.
The presence of flowers led to increased contact with family and friends.
* Flowers are a symbol for sharing.
The study explored where in their homes people displayed flowers. Once received, arrangements were placed in areas of the home that are open to visitors - such as foyers, living rooms and dining rooms - suggesting that flowers make the space more welcoming and create a sharing atmosphere.
* People who buy more flowers are happier.
Once learning the study results, participants in all age and gift categories reported that they would be buying more flowers in the future.
