Grief can be emotionally overwhelming, some may even develop depression as a result. Though it is an inevitable part of life, there are ways to alleviate the pain of grief and eventually feel some comfort during such difficult times. This is through the power of flowers, whether it is a death of a loved one, a friend, a relative, or even a pet, flowers offer comfort and support by offering hope during such dark times.
What flowers tell about grief?
Flowers might be known as culture and tradition representations, most people use it as a gift during special occasions, but it can also heal dark times. There are blooms intended for expressing empathy and are usually used during wake, other instances can be used when commemorating loved one’s or special people.
Lilies – Often used in funeral arrangements. Lilies are among the most recognisable flowers linked with grief. In Christian symbolism, they represent the restoration of the soul and the purity of the deceased. Their soft, delicate petals are a reminder of the fragility of life, while their powerful scent offers comfort to those in mourning.
Chrysanthemums – A lot of cultures consider chrysanthemums as a symbol of life, death, and renewal. In countries like China and Japan, they are being used when honouring ancestors and who have passed.
Orchids – A flower that shows elegance and rarity, for many it portrays beauty and strength. This type of flower can be very meaningful in times of grief. Giving someone in grief an arranged orchid can show deep respect and admiration for the departed.
Roses – Roses are not only for romanticity, each colour conveys a certain message. White roses are often chosen to show purity and reverence. Roses are a classic tribute, and of course, offer strength and support to a family in grief.
Forget-Me-Nots – As the name suggests, forget-me-nots is a type of flower used for remembrance. These small, unassuming flowers are often used in memorials, it shows how the family and friends never forget the person that passed away.
Carnations – Carnations are often included in funeral bouquets, the beautiful petals of this flower offer comfort. The pink carnation is particularly associated with a love that transcends death, while the white one shows a pure and endless bond.
Power of Flowers in Grieving Process
Scent
Scent can trigger emotional response, it can even relieve a soul from a sad situation. Fragrant flowers reduce anxiety and stress, in times of grief, where a person is emotionally fragile, it can become a calming outlet. A flower can offer comfort for a person smelling it.
Providing Emotional Expression
While crying is a way of expressing grief, flowers can offer a way to express feelings when words fail. Sending or receiving flowers allows non-verbal communication between the sender and the person in grief. It also represents understanding and support during difficult times.
Symbol of Hope and Healing
Grief can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to get swept away by sorrow. During this time, flowers can bring hope, new beginnings, and healing. Flowers can be seen as light in the dark, though it may not take away the pain, it will remind the person that pain is not permanent.
Flowers in Rituals and Memorials
No matter what the status of departed loved ones is, flowers will always be present during wake. A deceased person doesn’t need to be rich, prominent or famous, people will always give respect through flowers, especially friends and family members. In fact, other people will also spend some bucks to decorate the death anniversary of loved ones who have already passed even for a long period of time. It’s more like giving a gesture of respect and remembrance, a form of honouring someone in heaven.
During funerals, you will often see flowers as centrepieces, the flower arrangements are meticulously chosen. The colour of flowers always matters during this time. While on every death anniversary, blooms are often placed in altars and memorial sites to honour memories of the deceased. It is undeniable that flowers are really powerful during down times, it offers emotional healing and focuses people in sorrow to a positive outlook of life.
It has become a tradition to include flowers during wakes, memorials, or even death anniversaries. Yes, they are not just for good times and romantic celebrations, but a centrepiece and healing outlet during sorrowful times. Flowers can heal family, friends, and other people in sorrow during the death of a person they love. Its appearance and smell can become so calming. Blooms during trying times must be chosen meticulously, especially when it comes to colour and meaning. Flowers are powerful, not just for romantic love, but also showing respect to departed loved ones.
