Part 8: 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 flowers’ 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. In Part 7, we explored flowers and physical health. Now, in Part 8, let’s bring it all home with everyday rituals—practical ways to weave flowers into daily life for ongoing joy and wellness.

🌸 Start Your Morning with a Bouquet

Research shows that positive stimuli early in the day can set the tone for hours afterward.¹ Placing fresh flowers on your kitchen table or desk provides a gentle cue to start the morning with optimism.

At the farm: Pick a small bunch of zinnias or sunflowers and keep them in a simple jar where you’ll see them first thing each day.

🌿 Midday Reset with Nature

Stepping away from screens and into nature for even 10 minutes has been shown to reduce stress hormones and restore attention.² A “flower break” in the middle of the day can be more effective than scrolling on a phone.

At the farm: Take a walk among the rows during lunch or after errands. We’re close enough to town that it doesn’t have to be a huge deal to run by. Bring a friend to share the reset.

🌼 Flowers for Gratitude & Reflection

Studies link gratitude practices to improved mood and resilience.³ Creating a small bouquet as a gratitude ritual—naming one thing you’re thankful for with each flower you add—can combine nature, creativity, and mindfulness.

At the farm: Invite children to choose blooms and say something they’re grateful for as they build their bouquet.

🌻 Weekly Family Rituals

Regular shared experiences build stronger bonds. A standing family ritual of visiting the flower farm, arranging bouquets together, or drying blooms for crafts can become a memory-making anchor in your week.

At the farm: Families often stop by on Sunday afternoons to walk the rows and bring home bouquets for the week—a rhythm that balances activity and rest.

🌺 Flowers as Gifting Rituals

Acts of giving enhance happiness for both giver and receiver.⁴ Making it a habit to gift a bouquet weekly or monthly—to neighbors, church members, or friends—creates ongoing cycles of connection and joy.

At the farm: Cut a few extra stems for someone you know needs encouragement. The act of sharing multiplies the benefits.

💐 Why Rituals Matter

Rituals turn fleeting moments into lasting habits. By incorporating flowers into daily, weekly, and seasonal practices, we make joy repeatable. These rituals don’t need to be elaborate—just consistent.

At the farm: If you’re searching for things to do in Johnson City, TN that bring meaning as well as beauty, Harvey Family Farm’s you-pick field offers the perfect setting to build your own flower rituals.

References

1. Isen, A.M. (2000). Positive affect and decision making. Handbook of Emotions.

2. Bratman, G.N. et al. (2015). Nature experience reduces rumination and subgenual prefrontal cortex activation.PNAS. https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.1510459112

3. Emmons, R.A. & McCullough, M.E. (2003). Counting blessings versus burdens: An experimental investigation of gratitude and subjective well-being in daily life. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology.

4. Dunn, E.W. et al. (2008). Spending money on others promotes happiness. Science. https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.1150952

This concludes our 8-part series on The Science Behind Why Flowers Make Us Happy. At Harvey Family Farm in Johnson City, TN, we invite you to experience the research in real life—through color, scent, tradition, and ritual, flowers truly are nature’s way of making us healthier and happier.