Taking care of a garden, smelling the scent of humid soil, observing the growth of plants... These simple actions have a immense therapeutic power. 🌱
In a world where stress and mental health problems are becoming more and more prevalent, therapeutic gardens stand out as spaces for healing and well-being.
👉 But why does gardening do so much good? How can nature help restore emotional balance? And above all, where can we enjoy a real therapeutic garden?
In this article, we explain everything to you, with a focus on our own therapeutic garden, a space designed to help and support people in difficulty. 🌻
One Therapeutic garden is not just a simple green space. It is a place designed for provide physical and mental well-being, integrating specific elements to promote relaxation, concentration and connection with nature.
The key elements of a therapeutic garden:
✔ A soothing layout : plants with relaxing scents, accessible alleys, rest areas.
✔ Adapted activities : gardening, harvesting, observation of the seasons.
✔ A sensory immersion : touch the ground, listen to the birds, smell the aromatic herbs.
Why is it effective? Because nature has a direct effect on our brain: it reduces stress, promotes concentration and stimulates serotonin production, the wellness hormone.
We often underestimate The impact of gardening on mental health. However, numerous studies show that Spending time in a garden improves mood and reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression.
The psychological benefits of gardening:
✅ Decreased stress : being in contact with nature lowers the level of cortisol (the stress hormone).
✅ Calming intrusive thoughts : the repetitive actions of gardening allow you to focus on the present moment.
✅ Natural anti-depressant effect : contact with the ground stimulates bacteria beneficial to the brain, promoting the secretion of dopamine.
✅ Satisfaction and self-esteem : seeing a plant grow thanks to its care strengthens self-confidence and gives a feeling of usefulness and accomplishment.
A real natural remedy, accessible to everyone, with no side effects!
Therapeutic gardens are used in numerous medical and social contexts :
✅ Mood disorders and anxiety : gardening helps regulate emotions and ease internal tensions.
✅ Cognitive disorders (Alzheimer's, autism, bipolarity...) : sensory stimulation improves memory and concentration.
✅ Physical rehabilitation : digging, watering, planting... These actions require fine motor skills and coordination.
✅ Social link and reintegration : gardening in a group encourages mutual support and breaks isolation.
📖 Testimonial from my own experience:
Since spending time in a vegetable garden, I have felt a real difference. I sleep better, I feel more calm and I have regained a taste for simple everyday things.
We created a therapeutic garden in partnership with an association in Ibos (South-West France).
This garden is a space designed to help people with psychological disabilities or emotional difficulties.. It allows you to experience the benefits of gardening in a caring and soothing environment.
What you will find there:
✔ A natural space designed for relaxation and rehabilitation
✔ Gardening workshops adapted to everyone's needs
✔ A place for exchange and sharing to break isolation
If you want to know more about this project or participate, contact us!
📩 Sign up to receive all the information on the next workshops!
If you don't have access to a garden, don't panic! Here are some alternatives to benefit from the therapeutic effects of gardening:
✅ Create a mini-garden on your balcony : a few pots of aromatic plants are enough.
✅ Taking care of indoor plants : watering, repotting... These are relaxing gestures.
✅ Participate in a shared garden : many cities offer plots that are open to all.
✅ Spending time in green spaces : walking in a park, touching the trees, listening to nature.
The main thing is to get back to the natural rhythm and to integrate these moments into your daily life.
Therapeutic gardening is not just an activity, It is a real approach to care by nature. 🌿
To remember:
✔ Therapeutic gardens help reduce anxiety and improve mood.
✔ They are beneficial for numerous psychological pathologies and disorders.
✔ Our therapeutic garden in Ibos is open to those who want to experience this approach.
Nature is a great ally for mental health. So why not give it a try? 😊
💬 Have you ever felt comfortable gardening or spending time in a green space? Share your experience in the comments! ⬇
