By Cheryl MacKinnon
In our fast-paced modern lives, the quest for wellness has become a paramount priority for many individuals seeking to restore balance and inspire their minds, bodies, and spirits. Wellness travel offers unique opportunities for travelers to immerse themselves in environments that promote health and well-being. Among the diverse array of wellness experiences, gardens stand out as transformative spaces that offer profound therapeutic benefits.
Nature’s Restorative Oasis
Gardens have long been recognized for their healing properties and their ability to provide respite from the stresses of everyday life. As travelers increasingly seek meaningful and rejuvenating experiences, gardens offer a sanctuary where one can reconnect with nature and experience its profound effects on overall well-being. Botanicals to florals offer a sensual peace that can only be found in the beauty of a garden.
Butchart Gardens, Victoria BC
Photo Credit: Destination BC
Stress Reduction & Mental Health
The calming effects of gardens on mental health are well-documented. As far back as 2000 BC, in ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia, historical records indicate a stroll through a garden was considered a remedy for the ails of the time. Spending time in garden space such as Nitobe Memorial Garden at the University of BC in Vancouver can significantly reduce stress levels and promote relaxation. The beauty of flowers, the soothing sounds of water features, and the tranquil forest atmosphere of the university all contribute to a sense of calm to induce relaxation, naturally. Studies have shown that exposure to natural environments like gardens, and green landscapes including city yards, parks and grounds filled with lush canopies of flowers, vines and more, can lower cortisol levels, decrease anxiety, and improve mood, providing a much-needed escape from the pressures of daily routines.
Nitobe Memorial Gardens, University of British Columbia
Photo Credit: Destination Canada
Physical Health & Well-Being
Gardens also offer numerous physical health benefits. Wellness-focused gardens like the spectacular 100+ year old Butchart Gardens in Victoria, BC often include pathways for walking or gentle exercise, encouraging physical activity in a serene setting. Engaging with nature has been linked to improved immune function, lower blood pressure, and increased energy levels. Additionally, some gardens feature edible plants and herbs, providing an opportunity for visitors to learn about nutrition and healthy eating practices. Visitors to world-renowned Stanley Park in Vancouver, BC or the Sunshine Coast of BC can partake in the Indigenous owned and operated Talaysay Tours program, Talking Trees. A multi-generational walking tour that provides guests with insights and learnings of how shíshálh (Sechelt) Coast Salish & Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) People have been utilizing the land for food, medicine and technology for thousands of years, the tour is considered both educational and transformative.
Candace Campo, Founder Talaysay Tours, Vancouver BC
Photo Credit: Talaysay Tours, Talking Trees Tour
Spiritual Renewal
For many travelers, wellness is not just about physical and mental health but also spiritual nourishment. Gardens, with their beauty and sense of harmony, can inspire contemplation and introspection. They provide a space for meditation, mindfulness, and spiritual reflection, enabling travelers to reconnect with their inner selves and cultivate a sense of peace and balance in the beauty of nature.
Education & Inspiration
Beyond their therapeutic benefits, gardens serve as powerful educational tools. Many wellness-focused gardens offer workshops, guided tours, and classes on topics such as sustainable gardening, herbal remedies, and mindfulness practices. From the serenity of Linden Gardens in Kaledon (13 km from Penticton in the South Okanagan) to the lush botanical gardens dotting the entirety of Vancouver Island, to Yukon Gardens, a haven for green thumbs seeking a respite from busy days, there are many diverse and captivating garden experiences waiting to be discovered.
These experiences not only empower travelers to make healthier choices but also inspire them to incorporate wellness practices into their everyday lives.
Linden Gardens, Kaledon BC
Photo Credit: Visit Penticton
Exploring Wellness Gardens Around British Columbia & Yukon
In a world where constant connectivity and urban living can take a toll on our well-being, gardens provide a vital antidote – a natural sanctuary where we can reconnect with ourselves and the earth. Whether you’re a seasoned wellness traveler or simply seeking a moment of tranquility, consider incorporating garden experiences into your next journey. The healing power of gardens awaits, ready to nourish your body, mind, and soul.
