The art of giving flowers is something that has been encouraged in every culture. A fresh bunch of blooms has easily been one of the top choices for gifts to give for centuries and it’s easy to see why. Any occasion is appropriate for giving flowers because they provide the perfect way to brighten someone’s day. The way flower bouquets are arranged, the colour and the type of bloom you give all work together to convey multiple messages. And it’s amazing how much these messages can differ from flower-to-flower. So why do we give flowers as gifts? And why has this tradition been so treasured since prehistoric times? Here’s a few reasons why:
To Communicate Emotions
The biggest reason we give flowers as gifts is to connect with an emotion. Whether its love, joy, affection, appreciation, sympathy, romance or apologies; flower giving communicates the deepest feelings in the most elegant manner. It’s been said that no tradition is as effective in communicating human emotions as gifting flowers or bouquets is. And there’s decades of research and culturally inspired mythologies to back it up.
Depending on the type of bloom, its colour and how it has been arranged will ultimately dictate the emotions conveyed between the giver and receiver. As a generic sentiment, flowers are a symbol of love and care. But these can easily be amplified or better distinguished to tailor the gift for any occasion.
Immediate Happiness
One of the best things about receiving flowers is the immediate happiness you feel. Even as the giver, the feelings of joy are invaluable. This instant sense of happiness that’s portrayed through flowers demonstrates true delight and gratitude creating an instant smile on someone’s face. It’s this immediate happiness that goes hand-in-hand with gifting flowers for special occasions. Celebrating a special day; like a birthday, anniversary or Mother’s Day calls for emotions like extreme happiness!
When there’s happiness, there’s positivity too. Flowers have the ability to make people less lonely and sad. This positive effect on people’s moods is a game changer – and one many of us have tapped into by giving flowers to communicate various emotions. Research shows that we feel less anxious, agitated and depressed after receiving flowers. So it’s no surprise that gifting blooms leads to feelings of enjoyment and satisfaction.
To Visually Inspire
The visual effect of blooms impacts long after the gift is given. Used as part of interior decorating, flowers can provide a stunning attraction to any space. Even after the blooms have died, drying flowers out can provide aesthetically pleasing results. Flowers are notorious for brightening up a space which keeps those feelings of happiness and positivity lasting longer. Adding flowers to your work or home space can boost productivity, clear the mind and promote a healthier and happier environment. They can be used as centrepieces or to add colour to interior or exterior decorating and visually inspire the creative minds.
To Encourage Intimate Connections
Because flowers are generally used to communicate certain emotions, they’re very encouraging of intimate connections. Anyone who has ever received flowers can agree there’s something touching about getting them. Especially if they have been tailored to suit your favourite bloom, colour or emotion, they show someone has taken the time to think of you.
The art of gift giving has always been in the details and flower gifting is no exception. Intimate connections are encouraged by the giver remembering intricate specifics about a person’s likes and dislikes. When flowers are delivered to a recipient, it can really show the attention they’ve paid and the level of care they feel.
Convenience
Gifting flowers comes with convenience and accessibility. Whilst they can be very personal in terms of colour, type and arrangement; they’re also an easy gift to send when you’re not quite sure of what to purchase. If you’re not familiar with a person’s likes but wish to congratulate them or thank them – send flowers. Just be sure to do a little research prior to avoid sending a bloom that may convey the wrong message.
Source: Manic Botanic