Healing power of flowers celebrated

An organisation has decided to make the most of the healing power of flowers.Such floral offerings have long been crafted by florists and given to people as presents to brighten up their homes.Now, one charity has come up with an idea it has dubbed ‘re-gifting’.Floral Philanthropy has been established in Canada and those behind the project hand over flowers to hospital patients and others who are in need of a boost, the Winnipeg Free Press reports.

The organisation claims to be the first in the country that focuses on retrieving donated flower arrangements, revamping them and the distributing them to hospitals and care homes.Commenting on the project, David Northcott, executive director at food bank Winnipeg Harvest said: “This is a wonderful opportunity to deal with the issue of healing in life. Most of the people we see are dealing with low self-esteem and poverty.” The flora that is being collected and restyled by florists will come from events such as conferences, weddings and funerals.

It will be arranged as single-flower posies or bouquets before being handed out again.Nurse Hennie Corrin, who is taking part in the initiative, said: “A single flower can decrease blood pressure, heart rates and stress levels.” Meanwhile, Cancer Care director of volunteer services Kathy Harrison added: “How many times have you walked by a bouquet of flowers and smiled?” It makes you feel good … the flowers have been very well received by patients and their families.”

Those who donate flowers are also urged to hand over money to cover the charity’s petrol and other expenses.According to research cited on Floral Philanthropy’s website, flowers have been shown to enhance brain functioning and improving episodic memory in older people.Also, they have the effect of lowering cardiac patient’s heart rates and improving the mood of those exposed to them.