Have you ever heard of a therapeutic garden? They are outdoor areas designed to boost someone physically, psychologically, and spiritually.
Luckily, these gardens are easy to build—so easy, they can be built in your own backyard!
What Are They?
Therapeutic gardens are “plant-dominated environment[s] purposefully designed to facilitate interaction with the healing elements of nature.”
You may be asking what makes a garden therapeutic? The answer is simple, it depends on the individual. Some will value improved accessibility over defined parameters, while others will prefer the reverse. A therapeutic garden will vary, depending on the individual, but they never fail to be beneficial.
Additionally, it’s important to note that there are sub-categories of therapeutic gardens. These sub-categories include healing gardens, enabling gardens, rehabilitation gardens, and restorative gardens. Regardless of the type, all of these gardens should be carefully designed to meet the individual’s needs.
Start Planning
To start planning your own therapeutic garden, determine if there is a specific focus you’re looking for. Are you expecting to be meditating in the garden, or do you just want to reap the physical benefits of gardening? Whatever the focus, make sure to research the various types of gardens that would fulfill the need.
The size of the garden depends on the person; as long as the person can relax for a while, the garden is big enough! Typically, these gardens will include features that allow individuals to relax and enjoy the garden such as a patio, walkway, fountain, gazebo, and more.
Additionally, gardeners should think about accessibility and safety. Simple things like creating a vertical garden or planting in raised beds could help with both. Plus, adding things like pathways, benches, and other comfortable relaxation tools could be beneficial for accessibility.
Remember, the garden is an area for individuals to relax in, so be sure to add anything you think could help.
What To Plant
Finally, gardeners should look to create a plant-rich and diverse environment in their therapeutic gardens. Include flowers, ornamental plants, and even vegetables that will thrive in some shade and natural lighting.
Be sure to plan a garden that will appeal to all the senses. Flowers are known for their visual appeal, especially ones that bloom with intense colors or eye-drawing displays. However, strive to include plants that will stimulate other senses like touch and smell.
Reap These Rewards
Gardens are amazingly beneficial to our mental and physical wellbeing. But with a little more thought and planning, individuals can take advantage of a therapeutic garden and find themselves benefiting from:
- Increased muscle strength
- Improved coordination and balance
- Greater endurance and problem-solving skills
- Enriched social skills
So, what are you waiting for? Get started on your therapeutic garden today!
