How Gardening Helps Nurture Mental Health and Wellbeing
How Gardening Helps Nurture Mental Health and Wellbeing
The Value of Community Gardening at St George’s Nursing Home Witham
For those who find venturing far from their residence challenging, bringing the garden closer can become a vital lifeline. The gentle rhythm of tending to plants, the feel of soil between fingers, the vibrant colours and fragrant scents – these sensory experiences can be deeply grounding and therapeutic.
To quote the RHS : “Gardening can alleviate feelings of isolation and boredom, offering a tangible activity that fosters a sense of accomplishment and connection to the cycle of life”.
This beautiful initiative is blossoming at St George's Nursing Home in Witham. Their very own Community Gardening Club, aptly named 'Blooming Roots and Shoots', is a testament to the profound impact nature can have, especially for those who may have limited opportunities for external
engagement.
In recognising that many residents are less able to participate in outings and traditional activities, the dedicated team at St George's Nursing Home looked to their existing garden as a resource for enhancing both mental and physical wellbeing.
'Blooming Roots and Shoots' is a truly resident-led endeavour, run by the residents for the residents.
This sense of ownership and collaboration is crucial, as it fosters a sense of community and shared purpose. The club has been embraced wholeheartedly, with residents actively involved in deciding what vegetables and flowers they wish to grow, nurturing the seedlings, and eagerly anticipating the fruits (and flowers!) of their labour.
The initiative has also blossomed beyond the nursing home, with the local community rallying in support. Donations of seeds, rhubarb crowns, and even a wormery have poured in from local allotments and enthusiastic volunteers, who also generously contribute their time and expertise. This intergenerational connection and community involvement further enriches the lives of the residents, fostering a sense of belonging and connection to the wider world.
As the seasons turn and the promise of an abundant harvestfills the air, the residents of St George's are experiencing first hand the therapeutic benefits of their gardening club. The anticipation of new growth, the satisfaction of tending to their plants, and the shared joy of witnessing the garden flourish all contribute to a sense of calm, purpose, and wellbeing.
'Blooming Roots and Shoots' serves as a wonderful example of how a simple connection with nature can significantly enhance the quality of life for elderly nursing home residents, particularly those with limited mobility.
By bringing the garden to them, St George's Nursing Home has cultivated not just plants, but also joy, connection, and a renewed sense of purpose within their community. Their monthly updates on their gardening journey offer a heartwarming glimpse into the positive impact of this inspiring initiative.
How Gardening Benefits Mental Health and Wellbeing
in a Nursing Home Setting
The benefits of this hands-on engagement are multifaceted, particularly for residents living with dementia:
- Sensory Stimulation: Gardening provides a rich tapestry of sensory experiences. The haptic feel of soil between fingers, the vibrant colours of petals, the earthy scent of compost, the gentle rustling of leaves, and even the taste of freshly grown produce can evoke memories, stimulate cognitive function, and provide a grounding presence.
- Reduced Anxiety and Agitation: The repetitive and rhythmic nature of tasks like weeding, watering, and planting can be incredibly soothing. Being outdoors in a natural environment has been shown to reduce stress hormones and promote a sense of calm, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing anxiety or agitation associated with dementia.
- Enhanced Physical Well-being: Gentle gardening activities offer a form of low-impact exercise, improving mobility, strength, and coordination. The fresh air and sunlight (providing Vitamin D) contribute to overall physical health.
- Increased Social Interaction and Purpose: The 'Blooming Roots and Shoots' club fosters a sense of community and belonging. Residents work together, share their experiences, and celebrate their successes, combating feelings of isolation. The act of nurturing something and seeing it grow provides a powerful sense of purpose and accomplishment.
- Cognitive Stimulation: Even simple gardening tasks can stimulate cognitive function. Remembering where seeds were planted, recognising different plants, and following basic instructions can help maintain cognitive abilities. The garden can also serve as a trigger for memories and conversations about past experiences with nature.
This initiative at St George's Nursing Home Witham serves as a shining example of how a simple garden can blossom into a powerful tool for enhancing mental health and providing a meaningful and engaging experience for individuals living with dementia. By bringing nature directly to their doorstep, 'Blooming Roots and Shoots' is cultivating not just plants, but also joy, connection, and a profound sense of well-being. It's a reminder that even in the later stages of life, the simple act of nurturing can bring forth beautiful and lasting benefit.
Contact St George's Nursing Home Witham
We understand that the decision to move into a care home is a significant one. It can be an emotional, challenging and uncertain time that prompts many questions.
Our frequently asked questions page will help answer common initial queries posed by families and residents, however there is no replacement for a face-to-face confidential discussion about moving into a care home, and learning about fees and funding etc, so do please consider contact us today via the green button link below, to arrange an informal meeting, and allow us to show you around our wonderful nursing home.