You don't bring me flowers: but new research says you should - mind, body & spirit

Natural Health, March, 2002

RECEIVING FLOWERS MAKES you feel more sociable and more satisfied with your life and even helps relieve mild depression, according to several recent studies at the State University of New Jersey in Rutgers.

In one study, brightly colored flowers were delivered to 147 women in their homes, in another they were given to 51 men in elevators, and in a third they were sent to 104 retirees. All three groups registered improved mood on clinical scales, often a sign that people feel more sociable and happier with their lives, says lead researcher Jeannette Haviland-Jones, Ph.D. But you don't have to wait for someone to send you flowers to receive the benefits. Buying bouquets for yourself can be as effective, says Haviland-Jones.

--K.P.L.