The Society of American Florists (SAF) partnered with Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey to explore the effects of flowers on human emotions and well-being. Led by Jeannette Haviland-Jones, Ph.D., professor of psychology at Rutgers, the research team studied the reactions of 147 women to three different gifts of equal monetary value: flowers, fruit baskets and scented pillar candles. Study participants did not know which gift they would receive.

Upon delivery, researchers studied the participants’ verbal and nonverbal reactions. They surveyed the participants’ moods, feelings, wellness and life satisfaction before and after each gift delivery.

The final analysis: Flowers are natural and healthful moderators of moods. While all the gifts had generally positive effects, flowers were the only gift to create universal delight, significantly impact mood and be recognized as symbols of sharing.

The Emotional Impact of Flowers Study Results:

• Flowers have an immediate impact on happiness. People demonstrate extraordinary delight and gratitude upon receiving flowers.
• Flowers have a long-term positive effect on moods. Flowers make people fell less depressed, anxious and agitated, resulting in a higher sense of enjoyment and life satisfaction.
• Flowers make a loving connection. The presence of flowers leads to increased social contact with friends and family.
• Flowers are a symbol for sharing. Flowers are placed in areas of the home that are open to visitors, such as a family room or foyer. They make the space more welcoming and create positive emotional feelings in people who enter the space.
• People who buy more flowers are happier. Once learning the study results, participants of all ages and in all gift categories reported that they would buy more flowers in the future.

Transforming Tomorrow

A group of students studied the "Seven Wonders of the Modern World." At the end of that section, the students were asked to list what they considered to be the Seven.

While gathering the votes, the teacher noted that one student, a quiet girl, hadn't turned in her paper yet. She asked the girl if she was having trouble with her list.

The girl replied, "Yes, a little. I couldn't quite make up my mind because there were so many!"

The teacher said, "Well, tell us what you have, and maybe we can help."

The girl hesitated, then read, "I think the 'Seven Wonders of the World' are:

1. To touch
2. To taste
3. To see
4. To hear."

   She hesitated a little, "and then,

5. To run
6. To laugh
7. To love."

It is far too easy for us to look at the world each day and find trials, tribulations, and troubles. We often tend to overlook what we consider "ordinary." Take a moment right now to view the “ordinary” in life with a little more joy and appreciation.

Published: August 24, 2001

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