FLOWER POWER

Wellness Activity: Flower Power

By Kathryn Alley

In a bustling season of picnics and bridal showers, awards ceremonies and high school proms, the world anticipates the coming pause of summertime. A full calendar of events can be simultaneously wonderful and draining, leaving room for burnout. To prioritize wellness of the body, mind, and soul, mindfulness activities off er a fun outlet of rest, dedicated to bringing one’s attention toward the present moment. Some consider mindfulness activities to be a gentle workout for the mind. Instead of a jog on the treadmill, mindfulness activities give stimulation to the mind in activities that reduce stress and delight the imagination.

As it is springtime, there is no better way to exercise mindfulness than through a beautiful fl oral gift. Inspired by Scandinavian infl uencer and TikTok icon, Matilda Djerf, fl owers are a simple way to brighten a physical space as well as one’s person9

al mind space. The wellness activity of using fresh cut flowers to brighten a room is proven to increase serotonin levels and lift spirits. When we purchase a bouquet of flowers, there is a conscious understanding in the activity that a traditional display of affection is being shown toward ourselves. That is, when we give ourselves an intentional present for the purpose of relaxation, we can experience true happiness. Having a living plant to take care of and nurture is a tangible illustration of the tender caretaking of our minds in wellness activities. The visual of the flowers creates a perfect metaphor for growth, strength, and new life born in light.

The author, Thomas Starr King, writes that “the spirit of a person’s life is ever shedding some power, just as a flower is steadily bestowing fragrance upon the air.” Flowers are vastly unique, presenting distinct fragrances and color patterns that shine in a room like a kaleidoscope of magic. There is a reason that brides are traditionally decorated with flowers; or tombstones are adorned with loved ones’ favorite roses. Flowers are the wondrous universal language gap. When we don’t have enough words to express sympathy, adoration, and gratefulness, the gift of a flower conveys all. Each petal and stem work together to create a harmonious symphony of beauty, boosting up the minds and smiles of all who are nearby.

Flowers are a powerful mindful tool to add towards a wellness practice. Whether it be for yourself or shared with family and friends, the gift of a flower secures anxieties and stress like no other, encouraging our minds to breathe in the sunlight and watch as peace and beauty prosper.