HALLOWEEN – A Time For Fun, Frolic & Vibrant Gifts

Halloween has its origins in the festival of Samhain among the Celts of ancient Britain and Ireland. 1st November was considered the end of the summer period, the date on which the herds were returned from pasture and land tenures were renewed. It was also a time when the souls of those who had died were believed to return to visit their homes. People set bonfires on hilltops to frighten away evil spirits and for relighting their hearth fires for the winter, and they sometimes wore masks and other disguises to avoid being recognized by the ghosts thought to be present. It was in these ways that beings such as witches, hobgoblins, fairies, and demons came to be associated with the day.

In the 7th century AD, Pope Boniface IV established All Saints

Stressed? Make Flowers Your Best Friend

It is said that, “The Earth laughs in flowers.” The presence of fresh flowers can brighten the gloomiest of days and often helps in bringing a smile of someone’s face. While it is commonly accepted that flowers bring out the best in people, it has now been proved by science that inhaling certain flower fragrances alters gene activity and blood chemistry in ways that reduces stress levels. So before you disregard gifting someone flowers and consider buying flowers a waste of money, think again. Below are listed flowers that will help you destress.

Lavender
Dried lavender is said to have aided in healing sleep disorders for centuries. The easiest way to bring it into practice is by sewing it into pillows or placing it in vases in your bedroom.

Daisy
In ancient Egypt, Daisies were inhaled commonly for healing the body of illnesses. If consumed with tea it aids to calm anxiety, headaches and induces sleep.


Flower Therapy

Evening Primose
Evening Primose is known to ease depression and balance hormones.

Rose
Roses naturally smell sweet and are used to convey warm greetings. The smell of roses are said to have a calming effect.

While we’ve handpicked Lavenders, Chamomiles, Daisies and Roses to help you relieve stress, all flowers that smell sweet, are said to have healing properties and can be used to relieve stress.

Simple things like tucking a flower bud behind your ear or into your pocket if you

CHRYSANTHEMUM – The November Birth Flower

With a history that dates back to 15th century B.C., chrysanthemum mythology is filled with a multitude of stories and symbolism.

Daisy-like with a typically yellow center and a decorative pompon, chrysanthemums symbolize optimism and joy. They’re the November birth flower, the official flower of the city of Chicago and the 13th wedding anniversary flower    

Eastern cultures regard the chrysanthemum as a celebration of life. In Japan, chrysanthemums symbolize long life and happiness and bear the honor of being The Emperor’s Symbol. There is even a national holiday celebrating this sacred flower. In China, this happy flower joins the plum, orchid, and bamboo as one of “The Four Gentlemen” and signifies longevity and a quiet life.

There are over thirty varieties of chrysanthemums, mostly in autumnal tones of red, yellow, and russet, but also in white. One of the most popular varieties is the “hardy mum