Kweku’s Korner
Guest Writer Dr. Breigh Jones-Coplin
Kweku Akyirefi Amoasi, formerly known as Ramel Smith
By Dr. Breigh Jones-Coplin
Breigh Jones-Coplin, PsyD is a Professor,
Entrepreneur and Mental Health Provider.
Flowers have long held a symbolic place in human culture, celebrated for their beauty and fragrance. However, beyond their aesthetic appeal, flowers possess a profound healing power that extends to our mental and emotional well-being. The journey from soil to self is a transformative one, and the therapeutic influence of flowers can be harnessed to cultivate mindfulness, stimulate creativity, and build self-awareness.
Mindfulness in Bloom: The act of tending to flowers, whether planting seeds, nurturing buds, or simply appreciating their blossoming beauty, invites us to be present in the moment. Gardening becomes a mindful practice, grounding us in the here and now. As hands touch the soil and flowers, our senses engage with the vibrant colors and scents, a connection is forged with the natural world—touching, smelling, feeling, seeing, even tasting. This communion with nature is a powerful mindfulness technique, offering a respite from the fast-paced modern life and creating a serene mental space.
Research indicates that engaging with flowers and nature promotes stress reduction and overall mental well-being. The rhythmic and repetitive nature of gardening and arranging flowers can induce a meditative state, calming the mind and reducing anxiety. Cultivating mindfulness through flowers is not merely about the end result – the blooming blossoms – but about the process, the journey, and the mindful moments we savor along the way, much like life.
Floral Inspiration: The vibrant hues and intricate patterns of flowers have inspired artists, poets, and writers for centuries. Creativity often blossoms in the presence of natural beauty. The act of arranging flowers, capturing their essence through art, or even simply immersing oneself in a field of wildflowers can spark creative impulses. It’s the journey of creativity, making something out of nothing.
Flowers, with their diverse forms and colors, offer an ever-changing palette that stimulates the imagination. Engaging with them provides an opportunity to tap into our creative reserves, fostering innovative thinking and the ability to see the world through a fresh lens. This creative inspiration extends beyond the floral arrangements themselves, influencing various aspects of our lives and contributing to a more enriched and imaginative existence.
Blossoming Self-Awareness: Just as flowers undergo stages of growth, from bud to bloom, so do we. The life cycle of a flower mirrors our own journey of self-discovery and growth so beautifully. Observing and nurturing the growth of flowers can serve as a metaphor for our own development, fostering a deeper understanding of the cycles of life, change, and renewal.
Moreover, the responsibility of caring for a living organism, such as a flowering plant, instills a sense of commitment and accountability. This nurturing process can be a mirror to our relationships with ourselves and others, fostering empathy and compassion. Flowers become not only a source of beauty but also catalysts for self-reflection and the development of a more profound self-awareness.
The journey from soil to self, guided by the healing power of flowers, is a transformative experience that encompasses mindfulness, creativity, and self-awareness. Engaging with flowers is more than a horticultural hobby; it is a therapeutic practice that nurtures the mind, stirs creativity, and deepens our understanding of ourselves. As we tend to the flowers, we also cultivate the garden within – a sanctuary for growth, creativity, and self-discovery. So, let the petals unfold, the colors flourish, and the healing power of flowers enrich the soil of your soul. Go out and grab you a flower (or two) and let the reflection, creativity, and mindfulness flower through you!