“The garden is one of the two great metaphors for humanity. The garden is about life and beauty and the impermanence of all living things.” ― Anne Lamott, Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life
Evidence-based research conducted over many years in Toronto, using the very respected Ontario Health Study, has also now demonstrated in very definitive ways, the restorative impact on us psychologically and physiologically:
- Through promoting good mental health,
- Through reducing non-accidental deaths,
- Through reducing blood pressure and stress levels,
- Through reducing sedentary leisure time,
- As well as through the promoting of physical activity
Being outdoors in Green Spaces; with trees and nature feeds and soothes our hearts and souls. We have been shown to be inspired, happier and healthier in natural environments. Natural environments enhance health and encourage healthy behaviours at an individual and at a community level.
At this challenging time when so many of us are feeling a call to change in our relationships, our families, our workspaces, our communities, our environment and for the future, a community-led Garden Labyrinth is a low-cost investment per capita, for potentially huge benefits psychosocially. It will be a beautiful and life-affirming Place to Come Together, beyond our differences.
Image credit Nari Jones