Part 7: The Science Behind Why Flowers Make Us Happy
In Part 1, we explored the physiological and psychological benefits of flowers. In Part 2, we looked at how color and palette influence mood. In Part 3, we focused on the social benefits of sharing flowers. In Part 4, we examined flowersâ role in memory, focus, and creativity. In Part 5, we explored the healing power of scent. In Part 6, we looked at flowers across cultures and history. Now, in Part 7, weâll explore how flowers and plants impact physical healthâfrom blood pressure to recovery and even immune response.
đ¸ Lowering Stress & Blood Pressure
Several studies show that exposure to flowers and natural settings can reduce blood pressure and lower heart rate. In one randomized trial, patients who interacted with plants experienced a measurable reduction in diastolic blood pressure.š Flowers donât just calm the mindâthey also ease physical tension.
At the farm: Visitors often tell us the farm is their âhappy placeââŚitâs certainly ours!. The simple act of walking through the field provides light activity and reduces daily stress.
đź Faster Recovery from Illness
One of the most famous studies in environmental psychology found that hospital patients with views of trees and flowers recovered faster and required less pain medication compared to those without nature views.² More recent studies confirm that flowers in hospital rooms improve outcomes, reduce anxiety, and support healing.³
At the farm: Picking a bouquet for someone recovering from illness isnât just a thoughtful giftâit may support their physical healing journey.
đť Immune System Benefits
Natural environments, including flower fields, expose us to beneficial microbes and phytoncides (organic compounds released by plants). These interactions can enhance immune response and reduce inflammation.â´ Time spent outdoors in biodiverse spaces is increasingly linked to long-term physical resilience.
At the farm: Strolling through the flower fields, touching stems and leaves, and breathing in the fresh air provides subtle but real immune system benefits.
đż Physical Activity & Movement
Flower picking may not seem like exercise, but gentle movementâwalking rows, bending to cut stems, carrying bucketsâadds up. Light physical activity outdoors supports cardiovascular health, balance, and flexibility.
At the farm: For visitors of all ages, flower picking is a way to combine gentle movement with joy, making wellness feel effortless.
đ Flowers as Preventative Health
Taken together, the evidence suggests that flowers donât just make us happyâthey make us healthier. By lowering stress, supporting recovery, enhancing immunity, and encouraging movement, flowers fit naturally into a holistic view of preventative health.
At the farm: If youâre searching for things to do in Johnson City, TN that support both mental and physical well-being, a day at Harvey Family Farm is the perfect prescription for joy and health.
References
Lee, M. et al. (2015). Interaction with indoor plants may reduce psychological and physiological stress⌠Journal of Physiological Anthropology. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4419447/
Ulrich, R. (1984). View through a window may influence recovery from surgery. Science. https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.6143402
Park, S.H. & Mattson, R. (2009). Ornamental indoor plants in hospital rooms enhanced health outcomes of patients recovering from surgery. Complementary Therapies in Medicine. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19715461/
Li, Q. (2010). Effect of forest bathing trips on human immune function. Environmental Health and Preventive Medicine. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19568836/