Many of us could have felt more alone in 2021 than at any other time of our lives.

We had to learn to enjoy our own company or the company of another via a mirror when the pandemic cut us off from our loved ones.

So, what can we do with it? Ok, there's no magic wand, but we think flowers are still a good way to let your friends or relatives know you're thinking about them – and that you're in the same boat.

Flowers to combat loneliness

Flowers draw people closer and can be used to deliver a greeting without having to say something. Every flower has a unique significance and can speak for itself.

It's much cooler when the gorgeous bouquet arrives as a surprise on their doorstep, ready to wow them the moment they walk in the gates. In these weird days, it's a way of reaching out that isn't through a phone to give some affection.

Here are only a few of the best flowers to combat depression, if you want to cheer someone up, bring a splash of color to their day, or say "I love you" if you can't visit.

Roses

 

Is there ever a wrong time to send a rose bouquet? No, we don't believe so. Plus, depending on the color and number of flowers you give, this ever-popular bloom can have a variety of meanings.

Give a bouquet of pink roses to reassure a friend that they are not alone. Pink roses are thought to reflect joy and appreciation. Choose only three pink roses – maybe with some greenery and gypsophila thrown in for good measure – and you're simply expressing your love for them.

Hyacinth

 

If you're feeling guilty about not communicating as much as you'd like – don't be too harsh on yourself; we're all going through the same thing! – Instead of sending a bouquet, consider sending a blue hyacinth plant. These bell-shaped blooms are said to symbolize forgiveness and are an excellent way to express regret while also showing that you care.

Hyacinths, on the other hand, only bloom in the spring, so don't wait; substitute white tulips and you'll send the same message: "I'm sorry I haven't been around lately, but I'm here for you."

Sunflowers

 

Send a bouquet of these seasonal blooms their way to brighten their day. Those classic yellow petals and fuzzy faces – which are actually made up of hundreds of smaller sunflowers! – will immediately brighten their day and let them know you care.

Send a nice note along with the bouquet to let them know you're there for them if they need anything.

Daffodils

 

 

With a cheerful bunch of daffodils delivered right to their house, add a ray of sunshine to the cold days of early spring.

These bright blooms are best sent in a larger posy and are said to symbolize fresh beginnings, making them perfect for a new or soon-to-be mother.

Let them know you're not leaving and that you're available on the other end of the phone if they have any questions.

Other ways to deal with isolation

We also have different ways of dealing with feelings of isolation. Here are some strategies to consider if you're feeling isolated:

 Reach out -A acquaintance, a family member, or a coworker. To start a conversation, reach out to someone and ask how they are or what they have been up to. It could be an email, a phone call, or simply commenting on their most recent Instagram post. Alternatively, plan a socially distant walk together where you can catch up in person.

Talk to someone you've not spoken to for a while -That old colleague, a high school acquaintance, the girl you met at the gym who asked for advice on how to use the weight machine... If things have gotten a little stale, text them and start talking again. They'll be grateful that you reached out, and you'll feel less alone as a result.

Try to plan in something social - We know we're sick of chatting with screens, but scheduling anything social, whether it's a Zoom call or a FaceTime catch-up, gives us something to anticipate. It's like going on a date with our mates, except we don't have to leave our computers. A win-win situation! Organize a flower arrangement session with your friends by clicking on the joy that flowers offer us.

Interact with your housemates-Do you live in a flat share but just say hello to the other professionals in the building? It's time to face your fears and start talking to the people you live with. Get to know each other better by chatting in the kitchen, organizing a walk together, or planning a house dinner. In the room next door, you could find a new best friend.

Get out of the house-We know it's easier said than done (especially right now), but going for a walk around the block and greeting people who pass by, or going to the store or your local cafe and striking up a conversation with the people who work there, can help.

 

Of course, it's important that we follow guidelines and preserve social distance at this point, however many of these can be enjoyed over a video call or from two meters away outside.