Gardening for the Soul: The Therapeutic Benefits of Tending to Our On-Site Gardens
Amidst the daily grind and the seemingly endless stream of digital distractions, more and more people are rediscovering the restorative power of connecting with nature through gardening. Whether tending to a lush vegetable patch, nurturing a vibrant flower garden, or maintaining a carefully curated collection of herbs, the therapeutic benefits of gardening are undeniable. At the Wine Garden Inn, we have long recognized the intrinsic value of our on-site gardens, not only as a source of fresh, estate-grown produce for our gourmet breakfasts, but as a means of promoting holistic wellbeing for our guests and staff.
The Mental Health Benefits of Gardening
Gardening has been shown to have a profound impact on mental health and emotional wellbeing. The simple act of digging in the soil, planting seeds, and watching them grow can have a profoundly calming effect, helping to alleviate symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. As Phyllis Lobbins, an East Side Garden Walk gardener, shares, “Gardening has helped me immensely in getting through very stressful times in my life. It helps me maintain my sanity.”
Beyond the meditative qualities of gardening, the act of nurturing living plants can also foster a deep sense of purpose and accomplishment. The satisfaction of watching a seed germinate, a seedling thrive, and a mature plant bear fruit or bloom into vibrant flowers can have a powerful effect on one’s mood and overall outlook. As Nicole Capozziello of Grassroots Gardens WNY notes, “I’ve heard from gardeners around the city about the many ways their community green space or home garden helps them feel better, whether they’re experiencing grief, social isolation, poverty, or post-traumatic stress.”
The Physiological Impacts of Tending Gardens
Gardening is also a form of physical activity that can have significant health benefits. From the repetitive motion of weeding and the heavy lifting of moving soil and mulch to the aerobic exercise of mowing the lawn, gardening tasks engage a wide range of muscle groups and cardiovascular systems. As Dr. Jens Jensen, a pioneering landscape architect who championed the therapeutic value of gardening, once wrote, “Gardens ‘appeal to the fine feelings of mankind and elevate the depressed in soul and mind to a higher place in the human family.’”
For those with limited mobility or physical constraints, gardening can be adapted to suit individual needs. The use of raised garden beds, lightweight tools, and ergonomic seating can allow individuals with back pain, arthritis, or other conditions to participate in gardening while minimizing discomfort. As Lauren Newkirk Maynard of Gardens Buffalo Niagara notes, “There are two types of healing gardens: restorative and enabling. A restorative garden benefits from just walking or sitting, while an enabling garden’s therapeutic results occur when you actively garden.”
The Spiritual Dimension of On-Site Gardening
Beyond the mental and physical benefits, gardening can also foster a deeper connection to the natural world and a sense of spiritual renewal. The act of cultivating a garden can be a profoundly grounding experience, reminding us of our place within the larger cycle of life and our role as stewards of the land. As Jens Jensen eloquently stated, “I believe the city should own tracts of land for the growing of vegetables and fruits, where citizens can see and understand that their real existence comes out of Mother Earth, and that the merchant or peddler is only a means of delivery.”
This spiritual dimension of gardening is particularly evident in the growth and development of our own on-site gardens at the Wine Garden Inn. As we tend to our vegetable patches, herb gardens, and ornamental plantings, we are mindful of the delicate balance of our ecosystem and the importance of sustainable practices. The act of nurturing these living spaces not only provides us with a wealth of fresh, flavorful produce for our gourmet breakfasts, but also serves as a constant reminder of our connection to the natural world and the cyclical nature of life.
The Restorative Power of Nature Interaction
Underlying the myriad benefits of gardening is the inherent restorative power of interacting with nature. Numerous studies have shown that simply spending time in natural settings can have a profoundly positive impact on both mental and physical health. Whether it’s the calming effect of a gentle breeze, the soothing sound of birdsong, or the vibrant colors of a blooming flower, the presence of nature can have a transformative effect on our well-being.
Reducing Stress and Anxiety through Gardening
For many, the act of gardening serves as a form of active meditation, providing a much-needed respite from the stresses of daily life. The rhythmic motions of tasks like weeding, planting, and watering can have a grounding effect, helping to calm the mind and alleviate feelings of anxiety. As Dr. Jens Jensen observed, “Gardens ‘appeal to the fine feelings of mankind and elevate the depressed in soul and mind to a higher place in the human family.’”
Boosting Mood and Cognitive Function
In addition to reducing stress, interacting with nature has been shown to have a positive impact on mood and cognitive function. The exposure to natural light, the absorption of vitamin D, and the physical activity associated with gardening can all contribute to an elevated sense of well-being and improved mental clarity. As the Mayo Clinic notes, “Spending time outdoors has been shown to reduce heart rate and muscle tension. Sunlight lowers blood pressure and increases vitamin D levels.”
Cultivating a Sense of Mindfulness
Perhaps most significantly, the act of gardening can foster a profound sense of mindfulness and connection to the present moment. The focus required to tend to the delicate needs of plants, the awareness of the changing seasons, and the appreciation for the cyclical nature of growth and decay can all contribute to a deeper understanding of oneself and one’s place in the world. As Phyllis Lobbins reflects, “Gardening has helped me immensely in getting through very stressful times in my life. It helps me maintain my sanity.”
The Social and Community Aspects of Gardening
While the individual benefits of gardening are substantial, the social and community-building aspects of tending to shared garden spaces cannot be overlooked. Gardening has long been a means of bringing people together, fostering a sense of shared purpose and camaraderie.
Fostering Connections through Shared Gardening
The act of gardening, whether in one’s own backyard or as part of a community plot, provides opportunities for meaningful social interaction and the exchange of knowledge and expertise. As gardeners share tips, swap seedlings, and celebrate the fruits of their labor, lasting connections are forged that can have a profound impact on overall well-being.
The Therapeutic Potential of Community Gardens
Community gardens, in particular, have emerged as powerful tools for promoting mental and physical health in urban areas. These shared green spaces not only provide opportunities for physical activity and the cultivation of nutritious foods, but also serve as hubs for social engagement and the cultivation of a sense of belonging. As Nicole Capozziello of Grassroots Gardens WNY notes, “What we aim to do with the Therapeutic Gardening Initiative is meet these individual and community needs, using existing garden spaces to connect people to nature, programs, and each other, which everyone deserves.”
Intergenerational Engagement in Gardening
The multigenerational appeal of gardening is another crucial aspect of its therapeutic value. From young children learning the joy of planting their first seed to senior citizens passing on their hard-earned wisdom, gardening provides a platform for meaningful intergenerational exchange and the fostering of lifelong skills. As the Mayo Clinic observes, “Gardening brings people together and strengthens social connections. The gardening community is rich with people willing to share their expertise, time and occasionally plants with new gardeners.”
Designing Therapeutic Garden Spaces
As the therapeutic benefits of gardening become increasingly recognized, the intentional design of restorative garden spaces has emerged as a crucial consideration. Whether in the context of a public community garden or a private backyard oasis, the principles of therapeutic garden design can help to maximize the restorative and healing potential of these living landscapes.
Principles of Restorative Garden Design
Effective therapeutic garden design often incorporates elements like meandering paths, soothing water features, and diverse plantings that appeal to the senses. The strategic placement of seating areas, shaded retreats, and areas for active engagement can help to create a sense of sanctuary and calm. As Lauren Newkirk Maynard of Gardens Buffalo Niagara explains, “Tie the garden together with paths and patios surrounded by plants. A water feature evokes a feeling of relaxation. Hang wooden chimes for their meditative tones.”
Incorporating Sensory Elements in Gardens
The integration of sensory elements, such as fragrant flowers, textural foliage, and the calming sounds of wind chimes or birdsong, can further enhance the restorative qualities of a garden space. By appealing to the senses, these elements can help to quiet the mind and promote a sense of mindful presence.
Tailoring Gardens to Individual Needs
When designing therapeutic gardens, it is crucial to consider the specific needs and abilities of the intended users. Raised garden beds, adaptive tools, and other accessibility features can help to ensure that people of all physical abilities can enjoy the benefits of gardening. As Lauren Newkirk Maynard notes, “Gardening activities can be modified if movement is a challenge. Use a small stool or raised garden beds if you suffer from back pain. A shovel or rake can be used to support your knees when squatting.”
By embracing the therapeutic potential of gardening and thoughtfully designing our on-site garden spaces, the Wine Garden Inn aims to provide our guests with a truly restorative and holistic experience. Through the cultivation of fresh, estate-grown produce and the creation of serene, nature-inspired retreats, we strive to nurture both the body and the soul, offering a sanctuary for relaxation, rejuvenation, and the rediscovery of our connection to the natural world.