Pollinator Gardens Rx for Mental Health

Tranquil gardens promote healing, because they are wonderful sanctuaries of calm and peace.

Pollinator gardens in particular, delightfully attract bees & butterflies, are filled with fragrant, colourful blossoms and sitting within one, makes a person feel like they are part of a magical world.

The residents from George Herman House enjoy a seasonal respite within their backyard oasis.

It brings them joy. To them It’s a place of refuge and they are all anticipating spring blooms.

Working in a garden is good for you. Science has identified beneficial microbiomes, (good soil bacteria ) that gardeners are exposed to, that neuroscientists claim is like taking antidepressants.

Mycobacterium Vaccae is found in ordinary soil and it stimulates serotonin production which makes you relaxed and happier. Lack of serotonin has been linked to depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder and bipolar problems.

In addition to working in the soil, fresh air and sunshine helps to make a soul feel good. Being outside in nature is healing and restful. Why aren't we all doing it?

This spring, plan to incorporate a pollinator garden in your space. It's good for birds, bees, butterflies - and you!

****If you are a gardener near Toronto’s Annex neighbourhood and would consider volunteering to help residents oversee their own back yard garden

Please contact George Herman House

***photo by Lynn McDowell