Power of Flowers
Rosemary, a friend from my past, was asked in an interview what sorts of things she does to take care of herself. One of the things Rosemary listed was, "I buy myself flowers once a week." From the profusion of flowers I see available in the produce departments of grocery stores, I'm guessing Rosemary is not alone. A recent study by Nancy Etcoff, PhD from Harvard University, explored the relationship between flowers and mood. Fifty-four women were quizzed about their moods, then sent either flowers or candle arrangements. After a week, the women who got candles were quizzed again on their moods and reported a mix of positive and negative emotions. But those who received flowers said that they felt more compassionate and felt fewer negative emotions. Of course this is not a large enough study to justify any scientific conclusions. But seeing even a single stem of fresh flowers in my kitchen in the morning makes me smile and lifts my spirits.
In the summer, my own yard (I can't justify calling it a garden!) sometimes provides the blooms for free. Other times, I only need to spend five dollars at the farmer's market or grocery store to have a stem of lilies or Gerbera daisies that can last a whole week. But like Rosemary, I have decided not to wait for friends or family to buy me flowers.
Kathleen Capcara
in celebrations, daily living
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