Flowers, a gift from the ground beneath, are not only a universal symbol of affection in a variety of forms, but get in touch with our ability to feel.
These beautiful visual arrangements often invoke a positive reaction despite their simple and fragile nature. Their emotional affiliation with happiness is often translated with a big smile-- it’s just what they do. Their intent brings forth an investment of effort in a relationship and is received as a token of appreciation. They are a reminder of what being taken care of looks like. The need to nurture them for as long as possible acts like a metaphor in day-to-day living.
The brain chemical dopamine is released when flowers blossom in the spring or when receiving them from a loved one. Dopamine sustains the happiness levels and works in part with oxytocin, another chemical that establishes social trust. One’s sense of attachment to another human is defined by these brain chemicals and where they stand. These emotions are sought to be stimulated since they’re often difficult to experience-- flowers help!
The historical bridge between flowers and happiness is bound to the ancestor’s survival instinct; a flower’s arrival after a cruel winter would signal an easier quest for food and warm weather. Their presence signals something special, something good. Their bright colors act like eye candy in which humans gravitate towards. Flowers as a reward on special occasions such as weddings, anniversaries, graduations, performances, and more contribute to those special memories made in an individual’s life. Flowers help us feel important and elevated, whether it be a special day or not.
The methodology behind flowers has an immediate effect on a human’s happiness and then often a long-term positive effect on one’s mood. Their intimacy and controlled pace are a contrast to the commonly fast-paced and digitized lives many lead now. Why do flowers bring us joy? They are a reminder of what being taken care of looks like.