Personal Reflections on The Defence Gardens Scheme: Visits and the power of the outdoors.

By Chioma Wuche

My personal reflections about the power of the outdoors and connecting with nature has been deeply enriched by my time spent visiting the gardens as part of the Defence Garden Scheme.?

The Defence Gardens Scheme evaluation, which Neighbourly Lab have been working on aims to deliver a compelling evidence base to convey the value of the project for the wellbeing of its participants but also convey the impact that this project can have on a wider scale in the Health and Social Care system.

From being immersed into the programme, I understood the transformative power of the outdoors and how nature can become a space for mindfulness and improving mental wellbeing. The importance of being outdoors is often understated, and I can appreciate how it fosters a connection between individuals and the environment they are in. I also observed how that connection is not just with nature, it can be developed with others in the space which creates a sense of community and belonging. Additionally, I realised that nature-based therapy offers a sustainable, accessible way to manage stress, anxiety, and depression. Nature’s calming effect enables participants to reset, rejuvenate, and heal in ways that traditional therapies may not offer.

As the next round of the evaluation kicks off, I look forward to uncovering new insights and learning about the significance of Nature based therapy and the benefits it offers to participants. As we dive deeper into this process, I am hopeful that the findings will further emphasise the long-term positive effects on mental health and social connections that stem from engaging with nature. It is exciting to think about how this evidence could contribute to shaping future policy and programmes, potentially influencing how nature-based therapy is integrated into broader healthcare practices.

The Defence Gardens Scheme has already demonstrated its unique potential, but the forthcoming data could unlock even greater opportunities for expanding its reach and impact. In a world where mental health challenges are increasingly prevalent, initiatives like these offer a beacon of hope, providing not just therapy but a holistic approach to healing that nurtures both the mind and body.