Amelia Elkins, LCSW, CAS
Are you looking to mix up your self-care plan, be more present, or connect with nature? Then Garden therapy may be just what you need. Garden therapy or Horticultural therapy is a professional practice that uses plants and gardening to improve mental and physical health (https://www.cnn.com/2018/08/03/health/sw-horticultural-therapy/index.html). In this practice, a horticultural therapist works with a group, helps everyone create goals, and works to reduce reason for seeking out support. However, research has also shown that gardening alone has reduced depression, stress levels, and can improve overall wellbeing. More on this here: https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/how-gardening-affects-mental-health.
Here are some benefits of spending time in the garden:
>Less time in front of a screen
>Connection with nature
>Learning a new skill
>Connecting with new people (through a community garden or the local garden shop)
How to Get Started:
>Consult your local garden store on easy plants for beginners
>Join a community garden if you don’t have access to outdoor space at home
>Still struggling to find a space? Indoor plants have a great impact on mental health too! More on this here: https://www.healthline.com/health/healthy-home-guide/benefits-of-indoor-plants
Lastly, if gardening is something you want to incorporate in your work with your therapist, bring it up in session! There are a variety of ways a therapist may be supportive in your gardening work.