Celebrating National Horticultural Therapy Week: Digging Deep into the People-Plant Connection
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Dogwood (Cornus canadensis) in spring bloom
March is a month bursting with new life, a vibrant reminder of nature’s resilience and the promise of growth. It’s also the perfect time to celebrate National Horticultural Therapy Week, https://www.ahta.org/national-horticultural-therapy-week March 16-22, 2025, a dedicated period to recognize the profound impact of the people-plant connection on our well-being. It’s no accident that we celebrate this special week as the Spring Equinox continues to wake up our plants in the landscape! As a registered horticultural therapist, I’m thrilled to share why this connection is so vital and how it can blossom in your own life.
While horticultural therapy is a clinical practice, National Horticultural Therapy Week also celebrates and includes therapeutic horticulture, a broader practice that encompasses work by trained professionals in the community with non-clinical populations.
For centuries, humans have recognized the restorative power of nature. From ancient healing practices to modern-day horticultural therapy programs, the evidence is clear: interacting with plants is good for us. It’s more than just a pleasant pastime; it’s a fundamental need woven into our DNA.
Stop and smell the fragrant spring blossoms on our flowering trees
More Than Just a Pretty Face: The Science Behind the Bloom
The benefits of therapeutic horticulture and horticultural therapy are rooted in science. Studies have shown that engaging with plants can:
- Reduce Stress: Gardening and simply being around greenery lowers cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. The gentle rhythm of nature provides a calming counterpoint to the pressures of modern life.
- Boost Mood: Interacting with soil has been linked to increased levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that contributes to feelings of happiness and well-being. The vibrant colors and fragrant scents of flowers can also elevate our mood.
- Improve Cognitive Function: Gardening activities, like planning and problem-solving, stimulate the brain and enhance cognitive abilities. Spending time in nature has also been shown to improve focus and attention.
- Promote Physical Health: Gardening is a gentle form of exercise that can improve strength, flexibility, and coordination. It also encourages us to spend time outdoors, soaking up vitamin D and fresh air.
- Foster Social Connection: Community gardens and therapeutic horticulture programs provide opportunities for social interaction and a sense of belonging. Sharing the joy of gardening with others can strengthen bonds and combat feelings of isolation.
Potting up houseplants
Cultivating Well-being in Everyday Life
You don’t need a sprawling garden to experience the benefits of therapeutic horticulture. Even small interactions with plants can make a big difference:
- Bring the Outdoors In: Add houseplants to your home or office. Even a single plant can improve air quality and create a more calming environment.
- Get Your Hands Dirty: Start a small herb garden on your windowsill or balcony. The simple act of nurturing a plant can be incredibly therapeutic.
- Visit a Botanical Garden or Park: Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Take a leisurely stroll, breathe in the fresh air, and appreciate the diversity of plant life.
- Volunteer in a Community Garden: Connect with others and contribute to your community while enjoying the benefits of gardening.
- Explore Horticultural Therapy Programs: If you’re facing specific challenges, consider participating in a structured horticultural therapy program led by a qualified professional. ahta.org
Celebrating the People-Plant Partnership
National Horticultural Therapy Week is a time to celebrate the powerful connection between people and plants. It’s a reminder that nature has a profound ability to heal and restore us, both physically and emotionally. So, this March, take a moment to appreciate the plants around you. Get your hands in the soil, breathe in the fresh air, and experience the transformative power of the people-plant connection. You might be surprised at how much it can enrich your life.