Resources for special needs gardening Fact Sheet

Greenstone Design UK

design for the future

:: sensory gardens for special needs, social & therapeutic horticulture

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RESOURCES

There is a wealth of research to say plants and even simply a 'green view' offer better outcomes. This supports the theory that interaction between people, plants & the environment is both necessary and fundamental. Everyone, adult and child, but in particular anyone with compromised mental or physical health, needs regular access to the natural landscape for their psychological, emotional, spiritual & social well being & development. Without good mental health it is almost impossible to achieve optimal physical health.

Horticultural therapy is a rapidly growing field with strong antecedents in Europe, North America and Australia. It is the formal name given to the process of using gardening, plants and horticulture to help individuals develop. Plants, gardens & activities in the natural environment are explored therapeutically to improve and enhance both physical and mental, while building sustainable communities, the social health aspect.

Benefits include:

Better physical health through exercise and learning how to use or strength muscles to improve mobility
Improved mental health through a sense of purpose and achievement
The opportunity to connect with others – reducing feelings of isolation or exclusion
Acquiring new skills to improve the chances of finding employment
Just feeling better for being outside, in touch with nature and in the 'great outdoors'