This month, we’ve added two resources to the Resource Library showcasing the supportive role gardening can play from youth to end of life–including lending support when we are grieving.
YOUTH SENSORY GARDENING MANUAL: American Horticultural Society
In their Youth Sensory Gardening Manual, the American Horticultural Society looks at what sets a sensory garden apart from other gardens, discusses sensation and the eight senses, and explores strategies to design an inclusive sensory garden for children.
The manual is accessible for anyone who works with children or is seeking a resource on sensory gardening. Medical professionals who work with children and people working with neurodivergent children will find the manual particularly helpful.
ARTICLE: “Horticultural Therapy Enhances End-of-Life Care”
In this article, the Horticultural Therapy Institute shares how horticultural therapy methods in the grieving process have proven successful in reducing anxiety and depression associated with grief.
Colleen Griffin, HTR follows Carrie McCann, MSW, a bereavement counselor working for Hospice. To address gaps in end-of-life care, Carrie founded Moonset & Co., where she provides non-medical support for loved ones before, during, and after a loss. Carrie weaves together embodied wellness practices with grief education and consulting to serve clients.
Read the article to learn more about Carrie’s work and using nature as a guide in the healing process:
About the American Horticultural Society:
Founded in 1922, the American Horticultural Society is one of the oldest and most respected national horticultural nonprofit organizations in North America. Uniting more than 22,000 members, from budding beginners to horticultural professionals and partner organizations, the AHS fosters a diverse community committed to advancing gardening knowledge and practices.
Learn more about the American Horticultural Society by visiting their website.
About the Horticultural Therapy Institute (HTI):
As a small 501(c)3 non-profit organization, HTI provides education and training in horticultural therapy to those new to, or experienced with, the practice of using gardening and plants to improve the lives of others. They reach students from across the U.S. and internationally, striving to help their students positively impact their own communities and the profession of HT.
Learn more about the Horticultural Therapy Institute at their website.