A garden that heals souls: An amazing experiment in a children's hospice

In today’s world, where technology often distances us from nature, one man decided to bring back the joy of simple miracles. In a children’s hospice on the outskirts of the city, an ordinary gardener has created a place that not only decorates the area, but also helps young patients find hope and strength to fight diseases.


How an ordinary gardener created a place of wonder
Andrei Ivanovich, a middle-aged man with good eyes and strong hands, worked as a gardener for most of his life. When he was asked to green a children’s hospice, he realized it was a chance to do more than just plant trees and flowers.

He wanted to create a garden that would be a place of adventure and healing for children. Instead of standard flower beds and alleys, Andrei Ivanovich planned mazes of shrubs, fragrant flower beds and even a small pond with fish. Each corner of the garden concealed surprises: birdhouses, where birds settled, benches under the shade of trees and areas with rare plants.

Plants that help with pain

The gardener carefully selected the plants, taking into account their healing properties. Lavender, mint, melissa - these herbs not only smell pleasant, but also have a calming effect. Bright colors, such as sunflowers and nasturtia, lifted the mood and caused smiles in children.

Special attention was paid to sensory plants. Children could touch the soft leaves of sage, listen to the rustle of bamboo and enjoy the aroma of jasmine. This stimulated their feelings and helped distract them from painful procedures.

The history of young patients and their transformation

Many children, getting into hospice, felt fear and loneliness. But the garden became a place for them to feel free and happy. Here are some of the stories:

Sasha, age 7: Suffered from a severe blood disease. Visiting the garden, he became interested in watching butterflies and began to paint them. His drawings became brighter and his mood improved.

Anya, age 9: After the operation, I felt constant anxiety. Walking among the fragrant flowers helped her relax and start smiling again.

Dima, age 6: A boy with limited mobility. Andrei Ivanovich built a special path for him, along which Dima could move in a wheelchair, enjoying the views of the garden.

Practical tips for creating a healing garden

1. Plant selection: Choose plants with a pleasant aroma and texture. Lavender, chamomile, rosemary are great options.
2. Creating safe spaces: Small corners with benches or canopies will allow you to retire and relax.
3. Water in the garden: A small fountain or pond will add the sounds of water, which calms the nervous system.
4. Sensory elements: Use plants with different leaf and stem textures for tactile sensations.
5. Wildlife attraction: Starlings, bird feeders and butterflies will revitalize the garden and interest children.

Scientific studies of the impact of plants on health

Numerous studies confirm the positive influence of nature on the psychological and physical state of a person. Contact with plants helps to reduce stress levels, improve mood and even strengthen the immune system.

Scientists from the University of Tokyo found that time spent in the garden reduces levels of cortisol, a stress hormone. Other research suggests that aromatherapy using plant essential oils may relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety.

How to Repeat the Experience at Home

You can create your own small healing garden even on the balcony or windowsill. Here are a few steps:

• Start simple: Plant several fragrant herbs in pots - basil, mint, lavender.
• Create a cozy place: Put a comfortable chair next to the plants so you can relax and enjoy them.
• Add elements of nature: Pebbles, shells or small wooden figures will revitalize the space.
• Take time to care: Water and care for plants, this will help to establish a connection with them and feel satisfaction from their growth.

The history of the hospice garden reminds us of the power of nature and its ability to heal. The simple efforts of one person have changed the lives of many children, giving them joy and hope. Perhaps it is time for us to turn to nature to find harmony and peace in the daily bustle.