During these “quarantimes,” it’s as important as ever to stay positive and upbeat.  By focusing on what we can do, as opposed to what we can’t, we’ll get through the Covid-19 pandemic with our sanity intact.  Spending time in the botanical world – socially distant, of course – is one simple way to improve and maintain well-being. Scientifically referred to as Horticultural Therapy, spending time among plants is proven to alleviate depression and reduce anxiety. The flowers, birds and bees are a world apart, oblivious to our virus concerns; and therein one can find solace, distraction, and exercise, too.  

Strolling a garden path is one way to escape into beauty and wonder. Better yet, get your hands dirty and work in a garden. Dig the soil. Plant seeds for a future harvest. Encourage blooming for more beauty to share.  

Don’t have outdoor garden space?  Place pots on a windowsill, filled with herbs or flowers to tend.  The act of caring for plants is in itself therapeutic. 

For a more playful approach, consider making art to place among your plants, or along a pathway.  Painted rocks, mobiles made from twigs and branches, figures sculpted from bits of wire and metal are just a few ideas that can bring surprise, whimsy, and joy to your botanical world.

Whether it’s outdoors among trees and flowers, or indoors with small pots of herbs and succulents, spending time in the botanical world is guaranteed to be life-affirming, stress-relieving, smile-inducing, happiness-promoting. Something we could all use a little extra of these days.

Be well, Friends.