Wellness in the Garden

The Science Behind How Gardens Nurture Our Mental Well-being

At our core, we instinctively know that being surrounded by plants and feeling the earth beneath our bare feet positively impacts our mental well-being. But what’s the science behind this deep connection?

The Power of Sound

Think about how you start to relax when you hear the rustling of trees in the wind or the gentle trickle of water.

These soothing sounds trigger alpha waves in the brain—rhythmic electrical activity that occurs at a frequency of 8 to 13 Hz, often observed over the back of the head during wakefulness. Alpha waves promote deep relaxation, helping to calm the mind and body.

Time, Space, and Healing

When you plant a seed, you’re naturally planning for the future. Your mind begins to think three months ahead, envisioning the moment when that flower will bloom. This process gives you a sense of purpose and motivation.

For those struggling with depression, anxiety, or trauma, the act of gardening can help illuminate a brighter future. It’s a mindful activity that provides a break from repetitive or self-critical thoughts, allowing the brain to enter a replenishing state where you can get lost in the moment.

Gardens also serve as a bridge to our past, linking us to memories of childhood, parents, and grandparents.

A garden, unlike a landscape, can be seen as a “holding space”—a therapeutic sanctuary that bridges your home and the outside world. It’s a place where you can reconnect with your inner child, recall cherished memories, awaken your human spirit, and feel your connection to the Earth and the Universe.

Gardens and Mental Health

For individuals with dementia, gardens can trigger memories from the past, activating parts of the brain that still recognize familiar scents and sights, even if they can’t name the plants.

For those with mental health challenges, gardens offer a soothing environment with plenty of greenery, quiet spaces, and calming elements like running water.

For individuals with severe autism, a rectilinear garden with minimal seasonal changes and no hidden spaces can provide a sense of safety and tranquility. Conversely, for those lacking sensory stimulation, a curvilinear garden with wind chimes, sand, water, and various textures can create a sensory-rich experience.

Understanding your needs and the needs of those who will share the space is key to creating a garden that supports mental well-being.

Source: Sue Stuart-Smith, psychiatrist, psychotherapist and author of The Well Gardened Mind with On Garden Design Podcast