Stop and Smell the Flowers

By Jeanne Ruczhak-Eckman

7 Have you ever received a bouquet of flowers for your birthday, anniversary, or other special occasion? It probably made you feel loved and happy. Have you ever received a floral arrangement after a loved one passed away? It probably reminded you that you are loved and that you are not alone.

Certain flowers have long been associated with specific meanings and symbolism. Ask any florist about heather for example and they will tell you is symbolizes admiration and good luck. It is also said to have protective powers. Almost everyone knows that roses are symbolic of love and passion. Did you know though that the different colors also have specific meanings? White is symbolic of innocence. Yellow is for friendship while pick is for appreciation. This month – June – is known as National Rose Month here in the US.

12The psychological and emotional power of flowers is undeniable. Flower Therapy takes that concept one step further. It deals with the “psychological and emotional well-being as the cornerstone for reaching or maintaining physical health,” according to the Flower Essence Society.

The Flower Essence Society (FES) was founded by Richard Katz and Patricia Kaminski in 1979. For more information about FES, please go to their website at www.flowersociety.org.

4The idea of using flowers to aid in mental and emotional issues and concerns dates back to the 1930’s when Dr. Edward Bach introduced the theory of flower essence therapy. His remedy uses specific flowers to dispel or counteract specific feelings. For example, elm is used for people who suffer a lack of confidence after taking on too much, according to the Bach Centre.

6The Bach remedies do not work on a physical level so the treatment instead is to focus on the emotional feeling. For more information on the Bach Centre, please go to www.bachcentre.com.

Incidentally, Flower Therapy World Day is Dr. Bach’s birthday – 24 September.

The vast majority of sites discussing flower therapy all refer back to Dr. Bach. Most were also located out of the UK and Europe.

10Yesterday I had the pleasure of visiting a field of flowers, literally, in Manheim Township, Lancaster County, PA. The farmer has a sign – several actually – around the edge of the flowers stating “Pictures – Yes; Picking – No; Enjoy”. For weeks now I have watched countless people walking through his field, taking photos and just enjoying themselves. I have no clue who the farmer is but his field of flowers are definitely therapeutic after a long day!

© Therapeutic Thymes, 2016

Author: Jeanne Ruczhak-Eckman

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