Throughout history, cultures all over the world have used flowers as a form of “unspoken” communication. Researchers have found that in fact, flowers have a long-term positive effect on our psyche and our moods. They bring us joy, and a higher sense of well-being and satisfaction in our lives.

While it has almost become a forgotten art, in Japan, the message behind each flower, is widely known as hana (flower) kotoba (language) a layered, hidden meaning in a “language” of flowers. 

Plum blossoms (ume) for instance, are known for communicating elegance, faithfulness, loyalty, and pure heart. Due to its ability to bloom in even the harshest of winters, the plum blossom has been revered since ancient times, announcing the end of winter and the coming of spring, therefore also regarded as an auspicious symbol of strength, perseverance and resilience.

Cherry blossoms (sakura) are said to represent springtime and are Japan’s “national flower”, in the hearts of the people. Every spring, throngs of Japanese people and visitors make efforts to see this beloved flower, a tradition known as hanami, a flower-viewing and picnic event held for the sheer purpose of enjoying the blossoms. With the arrival of each and every spring, this highly anticipated, joyful tradition of hanami, is old-yet ongoing, with a history tracing back to the 3rd century-AD.

Being widely celebrated in Japanese literature and art, the cherry blossom is also known for its deeper meanings. For example, since they bloom briefly, their delicate blossoms are often seen as a metaphor for the ephemeral beauty of living. Their breathtakingly brilliant blooming season is powerful, glorious, and intoxicating, however short-lived, a visual reminder for us that our lives, too, are impermanent.

With its blooming season coinciding with the Japanese calendar year, the cherry’s blossom also represents hope and new dreams at a time when students across Japan will start their very first day of school, and employees their first day of a new job.  

Peonies (botan) are a much-loved favorite flower in gardens all over the world. The peony in Japan, is well considered the royalty  of all flowers, with meanings including wealth, good fortune, honor, daring and bravery. Its beauty has served as inspiration for artists in both Eastern and Western cultures and it is often a popular subject of Japanese poetry.

Clearly, the language we are able to communicate with flowers is often the best way of making someone smile, cheering them up, and giving them hope for the future. 

Our spirit seems to know, in the giving as well as in the receiving, that when flowers are in full-bloom, our lives too,  burst with possibilities.