Horticultural Therapy Blooms at MUSC Urban Pocket Farms in Charleston, SC
In the heart of Charleston, South Carolina, the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) Urban Pocket Farms has embraced the concept of horticultural therapy, harnessing the healing power of nature to improve both mental and physical health among various populations.
Horticultural therapy is a time-tested approach that uses plants and the activities associated with gardening to enhance an individual’s well-being. At MUSC Urban Pocket Farms, this practice has been integrated into their regular programs, promoting better health outcomes by fostering interaction with nature.
Applying Horticultural Therapy Across Different Populations
As part of their ongoing commitment to improving community health, MUSC’s initiative aims at several populations each week, regardless of their health condition or age group. The practice is inclusive and collaborative, encouraging everyone to participate.
From seniors dealing with cognitive impairive conditions to kids learning about food and nutrition, to patients undergoing rehabilitation—horticultural therapy at MUSC Urban Pocket Farms caters to all by providing a therapeutic garden-based experience. Participants use the green spaces available to engage in various gardening activities that contribute to holistic wellness.
Benefits of Horticultural Therapy
Horticultural therapy has a broad range of therapeutic benefits that bear influence on an individual’s physical, psychological, and social health. Some of these benefits include:
- Reducing feelings of stress and anxiety
- Improving concentration and memory
- Boosting mood and promoting relaxation
- Enhancing self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment
- Providing opportunities for social interaction
- Improving physical health through low-impact physical activity.
In essence, both the physical activities involved in gardening and the healing experience of connecting with nature contribute to an individual’s general wellness.
MUSC’s Urban Pocket Farms: A Symbiotic Relationship
The use of urban farming spaces to deliver horticultural therapy forms a perfectly symbiotic relationship at MUSC. The participants are given a chance not only to improve their health but also contribute to the broader goals of the Urban Farm: promoting food security, reducing food waste, and enhancing environmental sustainability.
As participants engage in various therapeutic gardening activities, they also contribute to the growth of healthier, organic foods that can be distributed within the community, fulfilling a valuable role in promoting greater overall ecological balance.
A Call to Engage and Contribute
MUSC Urban Pocket Farms extends an open invitation to those interested in learning more about horticultural therapy. Volunteers are also welcomed to participate in a multitude of garden-based activities and contribute to the continuum of care, health, and wellness that the Urban Farm promotes.
Recognizing the value of nature in promoting health, MUSC Urban Pocket Farms virtually embodies the quote by ancient Roman author Pliny the Elder: “Nature herself is the best physician.”
