With today’s fast-paced, high-tech world pulling us in every direction, it’s no surprise that many of us are searching for simple, meaningful ways to feel more grounded and connected. Experts often recommend exercise or lifestyle changes to manage stress—but research from Rutgers University confirms something I’ve known my entire life: flowers truly improve emotional well-being.
Behavioral research conducted by Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey found that the presence of flowers triggers happy emotions, increases life satisfaction, and positively influences social behavior in ways far greater than most people realize. As someone who has grown up surrounded by flowers and watched them mark life’s most meaningful moments, this research reflects what I have seen my whole life; flowers have a real lasting effect on how we feel.
“What’s most exciting about this study is that it challenges established scientific beliefs about how people can manage their day-to-day moods in a healthy and natural way,” said Jeannette Haviland-Jones, Ph.D., Professor of Psychology at Rutgers and lead researcher on the study.
What the Research Found
Over a 10-month study, researchers explored how receiving flowers affected participants’ emotional and behavioral responses. The results were powerful—and honestly, beautifully simple.
- Flowers have an immediate impact on happiness. Every participant expressed genuine smiles and excitement upon receiving flowers, across all ages and backgrounds.
- Flowers offer long-term emotional benefits. Participants reported feeling less anxious, less depressed, and more content overall after receiving flowers.
- Flowers strengthen connections. The presence of flowers increased interaction with family and friends, reinforcing relationships and togetherness.
As Dr. Haviland-Jones put it, “Common sense tells us that flowers make us happy. Now, science shows that not only do flowers make us happier than we know, they have strong positive effects on our emotional well-being.”
Why This Matters to Me
Every day at Lake Forest Flowers, I witness these findings come to life. I see how a bouquet can lift someone’s spirits after a hard week, celebrate love, honor memory, or simply remind someone that they are seen and cared for. Flowers speak when words fall short—and that emotional impact is real.
Flowers Are Meant to Be Shared
The Rutgers study also explored where people place flowers in their homes. Most arrangements were displayed in shared spaces—entryways, dining rooms, living rooms—places meant for gathering and welcoming others.
“Flowers bring about positive emotional feelings in those who enter a room,” said Dr. Haviland-Jones. “They make the space more welcoming and create a sharing atmosphere.”
To me, that’s the heart of it. Flowers aren’t just decorative—they’re connective. They invite warmth, conversation, and joy into a space.
Spreading Joy, One Arrangement at a Time
In a world that often feels heavy, flowers offer a small but powerful way to spread light. Whether given for a milestone, a moment of comfort, or no reason at all, flowers have the ability to shift emotions, strengthen relationships, and remind us of the beauty around us.
That’s why I believe so deeply in what we do—and why spreading joy through flowers will always matter.