As a Designer of Gardens and Landscapes, one of the most frequent requests from my clients is to produce a place for relaxation and solace. In a world that bombards us with constant noise and distractions, the garden stands as a beacon of tranquillity, offering a sanctuary to those searching for it. We can re-establish our bond with nature and nourish our souls by dedicating a space in our outdoor areas for quiet contemplation and meditation. Caring for plants, feeling the earth beneath our fingers, and witnessing the growth miracle can profoundly impact our mental wellbeing.
The Garden of Solace
A place to retreat from everyday life
Gardens, beyond being a mere outdoor space, offer a sensory experience that can transport us from the pressures of everyday life. The scent of jasmine mingling with the earthy aroma of freshly turned soil, and the laughter of birdsong dancing with the rustle of leaves in the breeze are not just sounds and smells but a symphony of calmness for our minds.
“In 2021, the RHS released research that revealed those who garden every day have wellbeing scores 6.6% higher(4) and stress levels 4.2% lower than people who don’t garden at all. Surveying more than 6000 people, the research showed a significant association between gardening more frequently and improvements in wellbeing, perceived stress and physical activity.”
Laura Scruby and Lauriane Suyin Chalmin-Pui, RHS. Science team
Creating a Sacred Space
Creating a place in the garden for relaxation and reflection is a way to find a way to retreat from the stresses of life. The man has traditionally built a shed in the garden. A greenhouse, if attainable, is a lovely light space for contemplation. Equally, a seating area positioned for the evening sun with a small table, a couple of pots and a glass of wine may be your happy place at the end of a day for escaping. Consider hanging festoon lights to illuminate the space at night for that perfect summer’s evening. Solar lights are readily available and don’t require expensive wiring and fittings to gain light. Volumise the space with plants, evergreens or plants in pots that can be easily transferred indoors or in a shelter for the cooler months.
Connecting with Nature
The beauty of nature is that it fosters mindfulness and encourages us to live in the present moment. The spiritual and emotional connection between nature and humans. Spending time outside and enjoying fresh air has been long known as a remedy to feel better. An emotional attachment gained from spending time in the garden positively impacts our wellbeing.
Gardening can help deal with anxiety, PTSD and depression as a form of therapy. The benefits of gardening extend to increasing one’s self-esteem, improving moods and reducing stress. Giving a child a space in a garden can help teach them to understand connectedness. In a world where our children are growing up with devices, computers are replacing outdoor activities virtually as opposed to experiencing the joy that climbing trees and getting muddy brings, and it is as vital as ever to encourage children to be outside.
Many women take up gardening in later years as a means of solace. It can become a form of self-care and empowerment, primarily through times of transition or stress. I have seen many friends renew an interest in their outdoor spaces and experience mental health benefits through gardening. It creates a community, among others, a constantly evolving dialogue and interest. This is not merely for gardening activities but also for an appreciation of extending their outdoor entertaining areas, a place to sit with friends and exchange stories where time slows and worries melt away.
As we reflect on the healing power of gardens, let us remember that we are not separate from nature but intricately woven into its tapestry. In nurturing our gardens, we also nurture ourselves, finding respite from the pressures of modern life and tapping into a source of deep-rooted peace. So, whether you have acres of land or just a few pots on a balcony, take the time to cultivate your own garden sanctuary. Your mind, body, and spirit will thank you for it.
As the poet Alfred Austin once said, “The glory of gardening: hands in the dirt, head in the sun, heart with nature. To nurture a garden is to feed not just the body, but the soul”
