Why we give flowers to those in grief—or buy them for ourselves when we're sad
During his renowned excavations at the Shanidar Cave in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, American archaeologist Ralph Solecki located burial sites containing pollen and flower fragments from various species of wildflowers. He interpreted this as evidence that Neanderthals may have placed flowers around their dead at their burial sites around 60,000 years ago.
The act of giving flowers to those mourning the loss of a loved one has roots that stretch back thousands of years. American archaeologist Ralph Solecki discovered early evidence suggesting Neanderthals placed flowers around their deceased around 60,000 years ago. Flowers have a unique ability to convey comfort and support without demanding conversation, making them an ideal choice for expressing sympathy.
Their physical attributes like textures, colors, fragrance, shapes and formations can soothe our senses, stimulating positive emotions. Moreover, flowers symbolize the cycle of life, helping to acknowledge and affirm the reality of death within the natural order.
Different cultures have assigned various meanings to flowers related to death and grief. For instance, in Japan, chrysanthemums symbolize death and reincarnation, while in Chinese culture, white and yellow chrysanthemums are given to the deceased's family. In the United States, chrysanthemums represent truth and purity, used to honor individuals who have lived full lives.
Psychologically, studies have shown that flowers can reduce stress and lower heart rates, triggering calming chemical responses in the brain. This can help alleviate the physiological and psychological fatigue often experienced during periods of grief. Furthermore, attention restoration theory posits that exposure to nature, such as the sight of flowers, can enhance concentration and reduce mental fatigue.
Gathering flowers for oneself during times of sadness can also serve as a form of self-care and self-compassion. This act of creating a space of care and self-worth encourages kindness toward oneself. In public settings, floral tributes foster a sense of shared mourning and unity within communities.
Ultimately, flowers offer a tangible reminder that life and beauty can still exist alongside sorrow, promoting hope and affirming love and gratitude for the deceased. They serve as a living connection to the past, helping to maintain a nurturing presence of the loved one while enriching the lives of those still living.
Written by urgent.news from Phys.org's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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- Why we give flowers to those in grief – or buy them for ourselves when we’re sad theconversation.com
