You may ask a dozen people why they have a garden, and you may receive twelve different answers. When you ask someone what a healing garden is, he/she will probably mention herbs and their medicinal qualities. Today I would like to share my experiences as I traveled down the pathways of a healing garden.
After I had suffered a severe head injury, my life became just one long day after another, filled with doctor's appointments and physical and speech therapy sessions devoted to coping with everyday life. I felt as if I had no control in any form. At first, about all I could manage was just to make it out to the garden. Much can be said about watching ladybugs moving lazily among the flowers, hummingbirds bickering over feeders, and butterflies drifting in the breeze.
As I grew stronger, I was able to scoot along the ground, pulling the ever-growing weeds and blades of grass. Whereas I had previously considered deadheading merely a job that HAD to be done, it became a task that took on new meaning. The feel of the warm soil in my hands, the sun on my back, and the fresh smells of the earth and flowers after a gentle rain produced a period of renewal in the garden and in my life.
Instead of worrying what the doctors would say on the next visit, I poured over seed catalogs, making plans about which seeds and bulbs I would order and where I would plant them. The garden became my goal. It became a healing garden.
I have since spoken with others who have had head injuries or who have suffered life-threatening illnesses. Each of us has experienced the connection to the earth and peace and tranquility. My connection was my healing garden.
Marilyn Helm, Smith County Master Gardener
Texas Cooperative Extension
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