Create a personal healing garden with soothing botanicals and sacred objects
by Debra Bokur
Throughout history, nature has provided inspiration for human creativity. Countless artists and writers, including naturalist Henry David Thoreau and conservationist John Muir, found their muses to be indelibly linked to the natural world. It was the multi-tiered, rambling garden at Brantwood, his home in Northern England, where environmentalist, poet, artist, and author John Ruskin found both communion and inspiration – a place where he could meditate and nurture his creative spirit; while Beatrix Potter’s observations of wildlife in her backyard led to the creation of the beloved Peter Rabbit stories.
Feed your own spirit and imagination by creating a garden of your own. Your deepened connection with nature will nourish your soul, while helping instill renewed balance and connection in your life.
Grow Yourself
Over the past decade, the field of eco-psychology has seen rapid growth. Research in this area demonstrates that it’s imperative to our own health and well-being, and to the well-being of the planet, that we form significant and personal relationships to the natural world.
David Bailey and his wife, Lina Devakciorius, both trained as environmental scientists. For nearly a decade, they’ve owned and operated Urban Oasis in Lyons, Colorado (www.urbanoasisdesign.com), helping clients create garden spaces that showcase native species and provide an opportunity to be immersed in nature. Bailey advises that we forget traditional definitions, which can be limiting, and remember that a garden can be whatever we want or need it to be, regardless of how much space we have. The important thing to remember is that caring for another living, sentient life can help put us back in touch with the larger world around us. A yard is great, but a cactus on a porch step, vines on a balcony rail, geraniums in a window box, or a mint plant on a windowsill can be just as rewarding.
“A lot of us have been removed from nature,” explains Bailey. “The origins of bonsai trees, in fact, came during a time when the harsh, ruling dynasty had exiled a great many people from their homes and gardens. Those who were exiled wanted to recreate those garden spaces, but because they no longer had the space, and because they needed to hide what they were doing, they created the miniature trees we call bonsai, which took up very little space. Later, the art of creating really small gardens came into being. Those people went to a great degree of effort to bring an element of nature back into their lives.”
Even a small, potted indoor ecosystem provides a chance to observe the cycles of seasons. Watching as a plant matures, blossoms, seeds, and fades can put a lot of other things into perspective. A plant moves gracefully and naturally through each phase, just as it was created to do. Embracing that rhythm in our own lives can help create the balance that so many of us crave.
Greening the Soul
“Be sensible about plant choices,” Bailey advises. “Choosing indigenous plants for your garden can help give you a true, deep sense of place about your local ecosystem. A lot of us define garden by those lush English landscapes that are so often the example – but it’s more important to work in harmony with the land that we have, and with what’s natural to your environment. Is it humid? Arid? What grew there before there were houses and people in that place? You’re in harmony when you work with natives in the area, and native species create habitat for wildlife. When we remove or replace indigenous plants, we remove their food source; and by endangering habit by watering for unnatural plants, we also risk harming an important ecological link in the chain that birds and animals require to survive.”
Instead of non-local ornamental plants, consider adding elements that have no impact on the environment, but that have special meaning for you. A special stone or sculpture positioned beside a flowering bush; a winding path leading to a sundial; or a flat rock or bench for contemplation can transform an ordinary space into one that’s perfect for meditation or contemplation. Bailey suggests giving some thought to what you imagine your ideal space for meditation might be, and then gradually adding those elements as you’re able to. If you are mindful in your choosing, a simple piece of quartz beside a tree can become infused with sacred meaning.
Bigger Picture
“We’re all so busy. That’s the great thing about having a garden in your own backyard – you don’t have to go too far to find nature,” says Bailey. “I think people really need to get their hands back in the dirt, in whatever scope they can. Even if you only have space for a houseplant, we all have an opportunity to bring nature back into our lives.”
Even a few herbs on a windowsill can serve this purpose, with the added bonus of a fresh source of nutrients at your fingertips. As you care for your herbs, then harvest them and prepare them for meals, you’re participating – in a truly tangible way – in the circle of life. By caring for a houseplant, or an entire garden, with intention and love, we take responsibility for other lives, gaining the chance to connect with our planet in an intimate way. Somewhere within that process, we may discover that we’re nurturing ourselves.
Play in the Dirt
A garden can offer more than just a few ripe tomatoes. Discover Mother Earth’s healing properties by growing everyday plants with therapeutic qualities that can help keep you healthy – and in balance with nature.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officialinus)
Beyond its decorative properties, this small backyard herb is packed with therapeutic power that can bring stress relief, stimulate your circulation, and reduce inflammation. Rosemary has a reputation for soothing inflamed skin, so try a shampoo that contains this herb to relieve an irritated scalp.
Lavender (Lavandula officialinus)
This aromatic herb is used fresh, dried, and as an essential oil because its healing properties are seemingly endless. Just the scent of this violet plant will relieve tension and ease headache pain, but its garden-grown powers also clear skin, soothe insect bites, and relieve sunburn discomfort.
Peppermint (Mentha X piperita)
Mint has the power to bring relief to an upset stomach and relax tense muscles while continually refreshing your senses. Add the soothing properties of this familiar plant to your next cup of tea, body scrub, or at-home spa treatment.
Lemon Balm (Melissa officialinus)
This flowering herb is a medicinal hero. Historically, lemon balm has been used to reduce anxiety and promote sleep, and its curative properties aren’t just folklore. Beyond being a modern sleep aid, lemon balm is a cold sore combatant and a muscle relaxant. Choose this sedative herb as a scented bedside aromatherapy oil.
Rose (Rosa spp.)
Often a focal point of bouquets, the rose is also a prized herbal healer. The delicate plant can soothe sore eyes and soften skin, and can also promote inner peace and tranquility during a spirit-lifting bath. Use rose flower therapy to keep you growing with the rhythm of your garden.
Chamomile (Matricaria reculita)
Infuse your household with this cure-all herb that will keep you internally and externally revitalized. Chamomile assists with sleep, soothes digestive woes, softens skin, and provides relief for menstrual pain. Use this botanical for all around well-being.
(Botanical information was provided by Bountiful Gardens in Willits, California, www.bountifulgardens.org )
– Talia Goldenberg
Healing Lifestyles & Spas mission is to help our readers to live mindfully, eat joyfully, spa consciously. Latest posts by Healing Lifestyles & Spas Team (see all) - Simpler Hair Color - April 20, 2026
- AlimajEssentials LLC - April 20, 2026
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Grow Yourself
Over the past decade, the field of eco-psychology has seen rapid growth. Research in this area demonstrates that it’s imperative to our own health and well-being, and to the well-being of the planet, that we form significant and personal relationships to the natural world.
David Bailey and his wife, Lina Devakciorius, both trained as environmental scientists. For nearly a decade, they’ve owned and operated Urban Oasis in Lyons, Colorado (www.urbanoasisdesign.com), helping clients create garden spaces that showcase native species and provide an opportunity to be immersed in nature. Bailey advises that we forget traditional definitions, which can be limiting, and remember that a garden can be whatever we want or need it to be, regardless of how much space we have. The important thing to remember is that caring for another living, sentient life can help put us back in touch with the larger world around us. A yard is great, but a cactus on a porch step, vines on a balcony rail, geraniums in a window box, or a mint plant on a windowsill can be just as rewarding.
“A lot of us have been removed from nature,” explains Bailey. “The origins of bonsai trees, in fact, came during a time when the harsh, ruling dynasty had exiled a great many people from their homes and gardens. Those who were exiled wanted to recreate those garden spaces, but because they no longer had the space, and because they needed to hide what they were doing, they created the miniature trees we call bonsai, which took up very little space. Later, the art of creating really small gardens came into being. Those people went to a great degree of effort to bring an element of nature back into their lives.”
Even a small, potted indoor ecosystem provides a chance to observe the cycles of seasons. Watching as a plant matures, blossoms, seeds, and fades can put a lot of other things into perspective. A plant moves gracefully and naturally through each phase, just as it was created to do. Embracing that rhythm in our own lives can help create the balance that so many of us crave.
Greening the Soul
“Be sensible about plant choices,” Bailey advises. “Choosing indigenous plants for your garden can help give you a true, deep sense of place about your local ecosystem. A lot of us define garden by those lush English landscapes that are so often the example – but it’s more important to work in harmony with the land that we have, and with what’s natural to your environment. Is it humid? Arid? What grew there before there were houses and people in that place? You’re in harmony when you work with natives in the area, and native species create habitat for wildlife. When we remove or replace indigenous plants, we remove their food source; and by endangering habit by watering for unnatural plants, we also risk harming an important ecological link in the chain that birds and animals require to survive.”
Instead of non-local ornamental plants, consider adding elements that have no impact on the environment, but that have special meaning for you. A special stone or sculpture positioned beside a flowering bush; a winding path leading to a sundial; or a flat rock or bench for contemplation can transform an ordinary space into one that’s perfect for meditation or contemplation. Bailey suggests giving some thought to what you imagine your ideal space for meditation might be, and then gradually adding those elements as you’re able to. If you are mindful in your choosing, a simple piece of quartz beside a tree can become infused with sacred meaning.
Bigger Picture
“We’re all so busy. That’s the great thing about having a garden in your own backyard – you don’t have to go too far to find nature,” says Bailey. “I think people really need to get their hands back in the dirt, in whatever scope they can. Even if you only have space for a houseplant, we all have an opportunity to bring nature back into our lives.”
Even a few herbs on a windowsill can serve this purpose, with the added bonus of a fresh source of nutrients at your fingertips. As you care for your herbs, then harvest them and prepare them for meals, you’re participating – in a truly tangible way – in the circle of life. By caring for a houseplant, or an entire garden, with intention and love, we take responsibility for other lives, gaining the chance to connect with our planet in an intimate way. Somewhere within that process, we may discover that we’re nurturing ourselves.
Play in the Dirt
A garden can offer more than just a few ripe tomatoes. Discover Mother Earth’s healing properties by growing everyday plants with therapeutic qualities that can help keep you healthy – and in balance with nature.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officialinus)
Beyond its decorative properties, this small backyard herb is packed with therapeutic power that can bring stress relief, stimulate your circulation, and reduce inflammation. Rosemary has a reputation for soothing inflamed skin, so try a shampoo that contains this herb to relieve an irritated scalp.
Lavender (Lavandula officialinus)
This aromatic herb is used fresh, dried, and as an essential oil because its healing properties are seemingly endless. Just the scent of this violet plant will relieve tension and ease headache pain, but its garden-grown powers also clear skin, soothe insect bites, and relieve sunburn discomfort.
Peppermint (Mentha X piperita)
Mint has the power to bring relief to an upset stomach and relax tense muscles while continually refreshing your senses. Add the soothing properties of this familiar plant to your next cup of tea, body scrub, or at-home spa treatment.
Lemon Balm (Melissa officialinus)
This flowering herb is a medicinal hero. Historically, lemon balm has been used to reduce anxiety and promote sleep, and its curative properties aren’t just folklore. Beyond being a modern sleep aid, lemon balm is a cold sore combatant and a muscle relaxant. Choose this sedative herb as a scented bedside aromatherapy oil.
Rose (Rosa spp.)
Often a focal point of bouquets, the rose is also a prized herbal healer. The delicate plant can soothe sore eyes and soften skin, and can also promote inner peace and tranquility during a spirit-lifting bath. Use rose flower therapy to keep you growing with the rhythm of your garden.
Chamomile (Matricaria reculita)
Infuse your household with this cure-all herb that will keep you internally and externally revitalized. Chamomile assists with sleep, soothes digestive woes, softens skin, and provides relief for menstrual pain. Use this botanical for all around well-being.
– Talia Goldenberg
Healing Lifestyles & Spas mission is to help our readers to live mindfully, eat joyfully, spa consciously. Latest posts by Healing Lifestyles & Spas Team (see all) - Simpler Hair Color - April 20, 2026
- AlimajEssentials LLC - April 20, 2026
- Innersense - April 20, 2026
- Simpler Hair Color - April 20, 2026
- AlimajEssentials LLC - April 20, 2026
- Innersense - April 20, 2026