How to create a healing space for a midweek reset.
Fake doesn’t count.
There is no denying it. There is magic in nature. We are not talking about those fake office plants and artificial green-walls every second restaurant seems to think is the hight of interior decorating. We are talking about a bit of dirt and tree bark real outdoor nature, bugs and all.
Nature bathe your way to happiness.
The term “forest bathing” originated in Japan in the 1980’s. they call it shinrin-yoku and if you translate it directly it means: “Taking in the atmosphere of the forest”…
Now, as South Africans we have a little less access to forests than the people living on the densely wooded Japanese islands, but that doesn’t mean we don’t have ample access to nature. Whether its bushveld, fynbos, savannahs, pristine beaches, or mountains, we can usually find a spot to unplug and reset every now and then.
The problem with this is that we have less of these green spaces in our cities and unless you have quick access to a park or botanical garden close to your home, you might go weeks without really getting out.
Seeing enough green guards you against seeing red.
If (like most of us) you have a high paced stressful life, you could benefit greatly from taking in a bit of nature on a regular basis.
Even if you can’t get out, you can still create a bit of verdant relaxation in your own back yard.
Here are some of the best tips to transform your garden into a healing space.
Plant. More. Trees.
Because trees are above our eye level, we often don’t even think about them. They also take long to grow which means we regularly ignore them when we think of planning our garden, but like they say. The best time to plant a tree was yesterday. The second-best time is right now.
Textured greenery is the way to go.
Successful nature bathing is less about having a vibrantly coloured flower garden and more about the different textures and hues of evergreen greenery. Plan your space to have something green all year round, even if not all your plants are evergreen. The calmness of undulating foliage waving in the breeze will significantly improve your outdoor experience. We promise.
Water keeps the calm flowing.
A babbling brook is the ultimate – but that is usually unattainable in suburban South African neighbourhoods. The second-best thing is any form of flowing water. A true water feature with a fountain element is ideal, but even a small bird bath with a tiny pump to keep the water flowing can be a wonderful addition to your garden.
Plant healing or medicinal plants in your garden.
This is as much psychological as it is practical. Many plants and herbs have proven medicinal values. We are not saying they will cure serious illness, but a cup of chamomile tea has never made someone more anxious. And parsley or mint really is good for your digestive system. Even if you never end up making the tea, chamomile will still attract pollinators as it blooms and you’ll feel like a magical garden wizard just knowing it’s out there, blooming.
Make a vacation of it.
If your budget is unlimited, why not take a global approach to forest bathing and book a trip to go and experience healing nature first hand.
There are so many benefits to creating a space for healing in your garden.
Yes, the braai area, fire pit and outdoor entertaining set-up is lovely, but think about sacrificing a bit of the rowdy social space for an oasis of calm. Your mind (and body) will thank you in the long run.
